Woodlice

Woodlice are crustaceans related to slaters, shrimps, lobsters and crabs. They are the only crustaceans that have properly invaded land, without the need to return to water in order to breed, although they tend to be restricted to fairly damp places. Woodlice are quite harmless and in fact beneficial in their proper habitat by promoting the breakdown of dead vegetation and organic matter in the soil. They normally live outdoors but shun the light by hiding under stones, logs, loose bark, leaf-litter etc., or in hollow tree-trunks - almost anywhere that is fairly damp. However, they frequently come indoors and may take up residence inside buildings, surviving in any dark, damp places they can find. When large numbers of woodlice are found indoors, perhaps clustered in wall crevices or under skirting boards etc., it is always worth checking for excessive dampness in these places - just in case there is a structural problem with the damp proofing or damp course. Woodlice are easily controlled with insecticides or silica dust.

Best Methods for Controlling your Pest

DIY or The Professionals?

Woodlice can easily be controlled on a DIY basis

The first issue is to deal with any dampness problem that has attracted the woodlouse in the first place.

Woodlice are harmless creatures and if you can brush them up and dispose of them outside, that is the best solution. However, if you feel the need to ensure they do not re-establish in that area, you would be best to use a suitable insecticide spray like Dethlac Lacquer Aerosol.

For a non-chemical solution, use Oak2i spray. Because of the likely damp conditions, non-insecticidal dusts are unlikey to be effective for long.

Use pesticides safely and always read and understand the label