If you hear the word “crustacean”, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a shrimp, a crab, or a lobster. But did you know that there are land-based crustaceans, and that you may even have some at home? Sowbugs, those small, harmless, insect-like animals, fall into this category. What are they? How can we avoid finding them in large numbers? And what if they are already invading you? This is what we will explain in this article!

What are woodlice?

Maybe you don’t know the name, but you’ve certainly seen them before. In fact, they are quite easily recognizable, with their oval-shaped body measuring between 12 and 19 millimeters, their hard carapace decorated with plates, and their dull color (gray, black, brown or yellowish). Interesting fact: when they feel threatened, some sowbugs (depending on their species) can close in on themselves and form a little ball, like a pouting child. Of course, even if they are not dangerous for the health of humans or animals, it is normal to not want to meet these bugs in your home. Why? First, an invasion can be disgusting. Secondly, since sowbugs like to feed on young shoots or fruits and vegetables, these crustaceans can damage our greenhouses and indoor or outdoor gardens.

How to avoid having woodlice in your home?

If you don’t want to welcome woodlice into your home, be sure to fill in any cracks on the outside of the building that might allow them to get in. In reality, these crustaceans are only looking for a humid place to settle. This is why it is very important to check for water accumulation near the foundation. Also, since sowbugs are lucifugic (in other words, they avoid light), it would be a good idea to water your plants during the day so that the soil can have time to dry out before nightfall, when the sowbugs come out. Finally, when you bring firewood into the house, inspect the logs carefully for any small refugees under the bark.

How to get rid of woodlice?

Unfortunately, at this time, no insecticide is effective in the long term to completely eliminate a sowbug infestation. On the other hand, some products (such as powders or sprays) that have been designed to keep other bugs away can sometimes kill two birds with one stone. There are also repellents made specifically for sowbugs, but don’t expect this to be a lasting solution. If a problem persists, what would be the best course of action? It’s very simple: contact Brisebois Extermination, and a qualified professional will be able to resolve the situation.

However, in the meantime, there is no need to hide or curl up in a ball, because the intruder, although tiring, will not harm you.