Pill Bugs
Did you know? The pill bug is the only crustacean that can spend its entire life on land.
Pill Bug Facts for Kids
Pill bug shells look like armor and they are known for their ability to roll into a ball. Sometimes kids call them rollie-pollies. Most pill bugs live for up to two years. They are most active at night.
- Size: 3/4"
- Shape: Oval
- Color: Dark brown to black
- Wings: No
- Antenna: Yes
- Common Name: Pill bug
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Malacostraca
- Order: Isopoda
- Family: Armadillidiidae
- Species: Armadillilium vulgare
Diet:
Pill bugs mostly eat rotting vegetation like vegetables.
Habitat:
Pill bugs live in wet locations. They are found under damp objects or in organic garbage. If pill bugs enter a building, they will often dry out and die.
Impact:
Pill bugs do not spread diseases or contaminate food.
Prevention:
- Keep your homes and the areas around your home clean and dry.
- Eliminate food sources such as vegetable or plant debris.
Kids and their parents can find more facts and information on pill bugs. To learn how to get rid of pill bugs and prevent infestations, visit the official NPMA website.
