For Kids

Are you looking for something fun to do outside? Peek under a rock, in some mulch or damp leaves. Keep looking until you see a gray bug about _ inch long with a curved, smooth back and tiny legs. This is the roly poly bug, famous for its ability to roll up in a ball.
• When scared, roly poly bugs roll into a ball. After gathering their courage, they unroll themselves and get ready for the next adventure.

• Roly Poly bugs are also called “sowbugs” or “pillbugs.” A roly poly is actually closer to a lobster than an insect.

• The roly poly bug is harmless. It does not sting, bite or pinch.


Fun Things To Do With Roly Poly Bugs

- PICK IT UP! Be careful… it may roll up right away or crawl around on your hand. If it rolls up, just keep your hand still. Soon it will open and crawl around some more. It may even tickle your hand when it walks.
- RACE IT! Set up a little track on the sidewalk using sticks as lane markers. On your mark, get set, GO! Run, bump and roll!
- BE GENTLE. Remember to put your bug back where you found it. Roly poly bugs don’t like being put in jars… would you?