Slaters & Pill Bugs

Slaters have been on Earth for around 500 million years!

Slaters (also known as pill bugs and woodlice) are little crustacean type organisms, distant relatives to other crustacean animals like crabs, lobster, shrimp, and krill. They’ll only grow from 12 to 15mm and their body will be divided into three parts: head, thorax, and abdomen. Some people often mistake the pill millipede to the slater due to their shared segmented outer shell. The main difference is that a pill millipede has smoother scales.

Where do slaters live?

Slaters can be found nesting in cavity walls, under bricks, pagers, and pot plants. Their natural habitat is any vegetative area including your garden which is why they feed on decaying matter, mold, mildew and fungus.

When are slaters most active?

Slaters are most active at night, preferring to hide during the day.

Are slaters a pest?

The slater is actually a beneficial insect due to their diet. They assist in the production of compost and overturning of soil. There are also no recounts of harm to humans, but for those with big gardens and large slater population may be bothered by their attempt at entering the home. Slaters will venture indoors in search of moisture and mold as they’re unable to retain water due to constant excretion. Their constant urination means that a large number of slaters will produce a particularly unpleasant stench. In the event of an extreme infestation, please call your trusted local pest controller at 13 14 40.

Preventative measures:

Slaters gain access into the home if garden beds, logs, compost bins are closely situated to the perimeter of the home. Brick homes or homes with a brick perimeter in close proximity are also vulnerable to slaters entering the home. Their small size allows them to enter the home through the smallest of cracks. The best preventative measure you can take is by distancing garden beds, compost bins, and stray logs/rocks. In addition, take extra care closing smaller holes found in the exterior of your home, particularly in brick homes.

If you have any questions about pest control services for slaters, give us a ring at 0800 710 010 or get in touch using our contact form.