Although sow bugs are not known specifically to endanger human health like other pests, their mere presence can be a cause of concern. They are classified as crustaceans, but ironically, they cannot live in water. Neither are they capable of keeping too much water in their system. Instead, they share the same living conditions as other arthropods and insects. They prefer moist and dark environment, but they can accidentally come out of their habitat and disturb humans. Sow bugs are mostly active at night and remain inactive during the winter season. They can be a nuisance for Vancouver BC residents in the warmer months of the year, making it important to know when to enlist help from a sow bug removal expert.
Proper identification leads to successful sow bug control and removal. These creatures are often confused with another crustacean called “pillbugs,” but there are noticeable differences. While both species are classified as isopods (meaning, having identical legs), pillbugs can curl into a ball, and sow bugs cannot. While both creatures have segmented bodies, sow bugs have a flatter appearance and resemble a trilobite or a louse. In addition, sow bugs are elliptical and can grow to about 1 cm in length. They have seven pairs of legs and two pairs of antennae. Both sow bugs and pill bugs are collectively called “woodlice.” It often takes the trained eye of a professional sow bug control expert to help identify these bugs.
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A sow bug’s diet consists of decaying plants, leaf litters, and natural debris. That’s why they are most likely to be found in the garden, particularly under leaves, tree stumps, decaying wood, and damp soil. Because of this, gardeners can treat sow bugs either as pests or friends. When they feed on leaf seedlings, they can affect the harvest and are thus a threat to gardeners. When they produce compost, they are welcome to stay in the garden.
Sowbugs are usually found in garden beds, usually undercover and in large numbers. However, they can occasionally enter the house through sliding doors, cracks, and unfinished crawlspaces. At home, they are usually found in the basement, inside bottom cabinets, in sunrooms, and in damp areas (e.g., drain pipes, bathrooms). During the winter, they can be found in artificial heated structures. Also during the winter, these creatures can enter the house through firewood carried inside.
Sowbugs thrive in moist or damp places. That’s why when they enter a dry structure, they are not expected to survive for more than a few days. There are a few places to check and things to do to keep an eye out for these pests:
Sowbugs may not be the most dangerous pest, but they can still be a big nuisance for home and business owners. If you are overwhelmed with these bugs inside or outside your property, the sow bug control team at Rentokil, formerly OnSite Pest Control can help. Our sow bug treatment will consist of a light residual spray to all active areas and perimeters of the affected unit. For more information about how we can keep sow bugs out of your Vancouver BC property all year long, contact our sow bug removal team today!
Serving the Vancouver & Abbotsford BC area
