Bug Identifier
Pillbug (woodlouse; roly-poly)
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.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.