The Dairy Cow Isopod Natural History
Size
These isopods can grow up to 20mm.
Habitat and Distribution
These can live anywhere on land as long as the temperatures aren’t too low.
Diet
The Milk Isopod feeds on leaves and rotten wood.
Age
They have a lifespan of around 2 years.
Groups and Breeding
The female will carry her fertilised eggs (numbering in the several hundreds) in a pouch under her abdomen called a marsupium which she keeps moist until the babies hatch, at which time they will leave her permanently.
Threats
This is a massively widespread species facing no threats.
Interesting facts
It is in found in much of the world and is known in the UK as early as the 13th century. However, it is thought to originate in the USA.
The Dairy Cow Isopod During Your Day Out in Kent
The Dairy Cow Isopods at Wingham Wildlife Park can be seen in the Bug Garden. This area is home to a wide variety of invertebrates including Salmon Pink Bird Eating Tarantula and Unicorn Snails.