Sow bugs are land-dwelling crustaceans that can grow up to 5/8 of an inch in length. They are arthropods, who are related to lobsters, crabs and crayfish. They are rounded on top and resemble a mini-armadillo, but have a flat bottom. They are dark to slate gray in color and have 7 pairs of legs and 2 pairs of antennae, 1 tiny pair and the other pair readily visible. Sow bugs have 2 prominent tail-like appendages, which stick out from the body on the rear end. These crustaceans are capable of arching their bodies into a C-shape, when they are threatened or disturbed.
Sow bugs need a constant source of moisture to survive. They are a nocturnal pest who will occasionally enter buildings through door thresholds, especially homes with sliding-glass doors on the ground level. An indoor invasion usually means that there is a large population of sow bugs just outside the building. Usually they do not survive indoors for more than a couple of days unless there are moist conditions and a supply of food present. They do not cause damage to our homes, but are considered a nuisance pest.
Sow bugs do not bite, sting, transmit disease or damage wood, clothing or food; they are simply a nuisance when they make their way into our homes.
By reducing the moisture level in your home such as by running a dehumidifier in a damp basement, will reduce the likelihood that sow bugs will stick around, but for more effective service contact Moyer Indoor/Outdoor®. A Moyer Service Professional™ can confirm the presence of sow bugs and recommend one of our 3 levels of service to help you get rid of sow bugs.
Sow bugs are not a pest many homeowners have much success eliminating on their own. Many do-it-yourself repellents and sprays to rid your property of sow bugs simply do not work as the chemicals they use are not effective. Also, if misused or mixed improperly, pesticides can be very dangerous to people, pets or plants.
The health and safety of our customers, their family or employees is very important to us and that is why we use Integrated Pest Management products and treatments that are EPA registered for pest control use. In addition, all of our Service Professionals™ are registered and licensed by the state or local jurisdictions where we provide service to ensure proper application.
Moyer Service Professionals™ are committed to helping you as soon as possible. In most cases, we can respond the same or very next day.
Many pest problems can be difficult to prevent so many of our customers choose one of our 3 comprehensive, year round programs to ensure sow bugs stay out of their home or business.