Slaters Pest Control
Slaters, also known as Pill Bugs and Woodlice, have been on the earth around 500 million years. They are tiny crustacean-type organisms, distant relatives of other crustaceans like crabs, lobster, shrimp and krill. They grow to around 12-15mm and are great for gardens, eating organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil. However, if you do happen to have a slaters infestation indoors, it can cause an unpleasant stench which is why pest control solutions are necessary!
This pest is covered in our home protection plans.
From Preparation to Treatment
Slaters are beneficial to your garden’s ecosystem and harmless to humans, so there is no need to prevent them outside.
Have You Got Questions? Call us on 1300 270 019
If they invade the home, slaters can cause an unpleasant stench. Seal up gaps in brickwork and ensure that compost bins and garden beds are at a safe distance.
We have numerous customised solutions available. It starts with a site analysis. Start yours today by calling us 1300 270 019
In the case of a serious infestation of slaters, call your local Flick Pest Control team. We can spray them directly with insecticides.
Shield Your Family & Home Year Round from Slaters
Flick's Home Protection Plans
Flick's Home Protection Plans provide effective and affordable protection for your home and family from a wide range of pests. Our Gold plan includes preventive measures to stop slaters from entering your home in the first place, as well as reactive and emergency slater pest control services if needed. All plans come with a 12-month warranty* and easy monthly payments. With a variety of plans to choose from, you can find a plan that meets your specific needs and budget. Contact your local Flick branch to see if Home Protection is available in your area and begin shielding your family from slaters today!
Common Slater Questions
Where do slaters live?
Slaters can be found nesting in cavity walls, under bricks, pavers, and pot plants. Their natural habitat includes any vegetative area such as your garden where they feed on decaying matter, mold, mildew and fungus. They are a beneficial part of the ecosystem, as they recycle nutrients and help build soil.
When are slaters most active?
Slaters are most active at night, preferring to hide during the day. This nocturnal activity is to help them avoid predators such a birds, frogs, beetles and spiders. However, it is also to avoid the heat of the sun, which can lead to water loss and desiccation.
Are slaters a pest?
Generally, 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 a large slater population, they may be bothered by their attempt at entering the home.
Why do slaters venture inside?
Slaters will venture indoors in search of moisture and mould as they’re unable to retain water due to constant excretion. Their constant urination also means that a large number of slaters inside a house will produce an unpleasant stench.
How can I prevent slaters inside?
Slaters gain access into homes if garden beds, compost bins etc. are situated too close to a home’s perimeter. Brick homes are vulnerable, as their small size allows them to enter the home through the smallest of cracks. Distance garden beds and compost bins from entry points and close up small gaps.
Slaters (also called Pill Bugs)
Slaters
Appearance
Arthropod approx. 12-15mm in length, part of the Crustacea Subphylum. Flattened, segmented body and 7 pairs of legs.
Lifestyle
Slaters usually mate during the warmer months. When disturbed, some will roll themselves into a ball to prevent their vulnerable insides. While they are easily killed with aerosol insecticides, you can also concentrate instead on preventing their entry to a home. Your local Flick Pest Control team can spray around the perimeter of your home to discourage slaters’ entry.
Habits
The slater is nocturnal and feeds on dead plant matter and vegetables. They prefer dark and damp places, such as behind bark on rotting trees and under tocks. They are in constant search of water, as they continually excrete. Extreme temperatures and sunlight may lead them to dessicate rapidly, which means they are constantly in search of cool, damp places to hide. This might be your home!