A woodlouse is a type of crustacean that has a thin, flat body and an outer shell-like exoskeleton that offers protection, particularly when it curls up into a ball. They measure no more than 1.2inches. They need moisture to survive as they quickly lose water through excretion, so are commonly found in damp places like under rocks and plant pots. There are over 45 different species found in Britain but only 5 are found commonly.