Is It Dangerous To Have Sow Bugs On My Reno, NV Property?
What Are Sow Bugs?
Also known as woodlouse, sow bugs are flat and oval-shaped pests in Reno, NV. Although they look like insects, these creatures fall under the crustacean category. They are often confused for pillbugs, which are also crustaceans. Both pillbugs and sow bugs are about one centimeter long and have two antennae. Despite being related and similar, pillbugs and sow bugs have two distinct differences.
- Sow bugs cannot roll up into a ball. When you disturb a pillbug, you'll see it curl up. Sow bugs just run off to hide.
- Their appearance is different. While both crustaceans have seven pairs of legs, only sow bugs have two appendages that resemble tails. Pillbugs have no appendages.
Are Sow Bugs Dangerous?
Sow bugs are interesting pests because they aren't particularly dangerous to humans. Unlike cockroaches in Reno, sow bugs aren't known to spread diseases to humans. They don't contaminate your pantry or threaten you with a mean bite or potent sting.
The only danger posed by sow bugs is to your plants. Typically, sow bugs seek out and live in the soil of house plants. It's not uncommon for sowbugs to damage those plants, which could lead to your favorite plant's demise. For those reasons, sow bugs are only a nuisance. They're not a pest you need to fear, but they shouldn't be invited into your home. Once sow bugs are inside, they're challenging to kick out. Prevention is crucial.
Sow Bug Prevention
If you want to keep sow bugs away from your property, there are some precautions you can take. The following steps may keep sow bugs away:
- Clean Your Yard: A yard full of debris piles and junk is a yard that appeals to sow bugs. If you have piles of leaves and grass clippings on your property, dispose of them. Otherwise, sow bugs will hide under the piles.
- Keep Firewood Off The Ground: When firewood comes into direct contact with the ground, sow bugs have plenty of moisture and hiding spots. Keep your firewood in a rack, and you'll make your property less appealing to these pesky pests.
- Make A Barrier: If the mulch in your garden bed directly touches your home, it draws in sow bugs. You should have a mulch-free zone of at least several inches around your building. When shrubs and trees are too close to the home, the leaves could fall and create a mulch for sow bugs to hide under. Trim them back and take up the trimmings.
- Seal Up Holes: Are there holes or cracks in the exterior of your home? These small openings could allow sow bugs inside your home. If you have gaps around your windows or doors, the same issue can occur. Use whatever means necessary to seal up potential sow bug openings.
- Limit Moisture: Without moisture, sow bugs won't survive. Reduce the moisture in and around your home, and you may keep sow bugs away. Consider using a dehumidifier and addressing all drainage issues.
What To Do When you Find Sow Bugs
If you see sow bugs in your Reno property, you need professional assistance. Here at Natura Pest Control, we can help. Our experienced technicians use the most effective methods in home pest control to eliminate sow bugs and keep them from returning. For more advice or assistance, call us today at Natura Pest Control.
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