Biology and Habits

Sowbugs are a land dwelling order of crustacean. Female sowbugs carry their eggs on a pouch underneath their body and develop 1-3 broods per year with an average of 24 young per brood.  Their habitat consists of areas with high moisture content including under mulch, grass clippings, leaf litter, wood logs, boards, and decaying vegetation. To prevent excessive water loss, sowbugs are inactive during the day time. At night, they feed on decaying plant and organic material. Occasionally, sowbugs enter homes and buildings through gaps or under doors, however they do not survive more than a few days indoors. 

Control

When sowbugs are present indoors, it often indicates a large population in the immediate area outside. The most effective way to reduce activity is to make the environment undesirable be eliminating areas where high levels of moisture can accumulate. If necessary, applying an appropriately labeled insecticide around the perimeter of the building, around flower beds, and in basements or crawlspaces can provide adequate control.