Roly Poly/Pill Bug

Description:

Armadillidium vulgare may reach a length of 18 millimetres (0.71 in), and is capable of rolling into a ball when disturbed; this ability, along with its general appearance, gives it the name pill-bug. There are two pairs of antennae. One of the pairs is really hard to see because the first antennae are vestigial which mean no longer used. Pill bugs have two compounds eyes, one pair of maxilliped (mouth parts), and seven pairs of legs. When they are stimulated, they immediately roll up their body and will be almost perfect global shape. This is the most common habit of Armadillidium vulgare. The habit is excellent defense from their predators such as centipedes, spiders and birds because all sensitive organs can be protected.

Habitat:

Armadillidium vulgare loves moisture. The most common place which they can be found is damp soil under stones or rotting trees. Spring and autumn are good seasons to find them.

Notes:

Armadillidium vulgare live in family groups. The male and female gather food for the family. Usually, the male protects the family. In spring, the young make their own family group within 10 to 100m of the original family’s burrow.