
Community identification
Pillbug (woodlouse; roly-poly)
Armadillidium vulgare
- Order & Family
- Isopoda (within Peracarida); Armadillidiidae
- Size
- About 8–18 mm (0.3–0.7 in) long.
Natural Habitat
Moist, dark terrestrial habitats such as leaf litter, soil, compost, under stones, and decaying wood; commonly found around buildings.
Diet & Feeding
Detritivore feeding mainly on decaying leaves, wood, fungi, algae, and other organic debris; it may occasionally graze on tender seedlings.
Behavior Patterns
Mostly nocturnal and moisture-dependent, hiding during dry conditions. When disturbed, it curls into a tight ball; females carry developing young in a brood pouch.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans and pets, and it does not bite or infest food. It helps decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients, though large populations can damage seedlings in damp gardens.