Sowbug
Oniscus asellus
Occasional InvadersGray oval crustacean with seven pairs of legs and two tail appendages. About 1/2 inch long. Cannot roll into ball. Requires moisture. Feeds on decaying organic matter. Harmless occasional invader.
Control Methods
Recommended methods for controlling this pest
| Method | Type | Effectiveness | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door Sweep Installation | Mechanical | None | |
| Perimeter Insecticide Spray | Chemical | Required | |
| Granular Perimeter Barrier | Chemical | Required | |
| Foundation Perimeter Treatment | Chemical | Required | |
| Landscape Vegetation Management | Cultural | None | |
| Threshold and Sweep Inspection and Repair | Mechanical | None | |
| Drainage Correction Recommendations | Cultural | None | |
| Mulch Treatment | Chemical | Required | |
| Crawl Space Vapor Barrier Installation | Mechanical | None | |
| Habitat Modification for Moisture Pests | Cultural | None |
Common Harborage Locations
Where to find this pest during inspections
| Location | Why Found There | Priority |
|---|---|---|
| Basements | High humidity, cooler temperatures, stored items, potential for flooding, entry point from outside. | Critical |
| Crawl Spaces | Direct earth contact, very high humidity, minimal disturbance, abundant hiding spots, poor ventilation. | Critical |
| Mulch & Landscape Beds | Moisture retention, organic material, cover from predators, bridge to structure. | High |
| Dense Vegetation Against Building | Moisture retention, bridge to structure, protection from predators, food sources. | Medium |
| Compost Bins | Food source, warmth from decomposition, moisture, organic material. | Medium |
| Leaf Piles | Moisture retention, protection from weather, food source through decomposition. | Medium |
| Door Thresholds | Common entry point, gaps under doors, light attraction, temperature differential. | High |
Important Disclaimer: The information provided in this knowledge base is for educational and reference purposes only. Pest management professionals should always consult current product labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), manufacturer instructions, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations as the definitive source of truth. Product formulations, application methods, safety requirements, and regulations may change over time. This information may be out of date and should not replace professional judgment, proper training, or required licensing and certifications.