Pest Control Fact Sheets

Woodlice

Facts about woodlice

Woodlice are not an insect and are closely related to the crab. They are one of the few crustacea which have successfully colonised land.

There are approximately 35 species of woodlice in Britain - all characterised by a body design of flattened overlapping plates and large front antennae. The most common, the garden woodlouse, is approximately 15 millimetres in length.

Being a crustacea the woodlouse lays up to 150 eggs and when hatched the young proceed to develop by a succession of skin moults to reach full size within 1 year. They usually move away from their habitat and into houses in search of protection from the onset of cold weather.

Many people find woodlice unpleasant. However, they do not spread disease and their presence does not constitute any risk to health.

What you can do

Regular vacuuming in those rooms which have been 'invaded' is the best way of dealing with them indoors.

Clear debris and refuse from the garden, particularly if it is close to your home and apply a crawling insect powder suitable for garden use to likely harbourage areas, e.g. beneath paving slabs.

Always read and follow the application and use instructions printed on the container.