Woodlouse

crustacean · garden creature · armor-plated

Armor-plated bodies. Woodlice have hard outer shells divided into segments, making them look like miniature armadillos. This tough exterior protects them from predators and helps them survive in tough environments.

Actually crustaceans. Even though they're called lice, woodlice are actually related to crabs and lobsters, not insects. They're one of the few crustaceans that live on land instead of in water.

Masters of decay. Woodlice love damp, dark places like rotting wood and leaf piles. They help break down dead wood and other plant material, which recycles nutrients back into the soil.

Live almost everywhere. Woodlice can be found on every continent except Antarctica. People call them different names depending on where they live, like slaters, sow bugs, or pill bugs.

Clever rolling trick. Some species can curl up into a tight ball when threatened, showing just their hard shell to the outside world. This makes them almost impossible for predators to hurt.