Order: Collemba

Family: Various

Springtails get their common name because most species have a spring-like structure that gives them the ability to jump 3-4 inches. These nuisance pests are attracted to high moisture areas. Springtails are distributed worldwide with over 600 species found in the United States and Canada.

Description: Most adult species range from 1/32-1/8 inch long. They have a soft, wingless and elongated body. The come in a variety of colors such as yellow, orange, blue, green, or purple. However, they are typically a dull gray to white.

Biology: Most species lay eggs in clusters in moist areas. Some species have been known to cause a skin irritation similar to dermatitis in humans.

Habits: Springtails inhabit only moist or damp areas. Most species occur in great numbers in the soil. They will invade structures in search of moisture if their habitat becomes dry. Indoors they are commonly found in moist areas such as crawl spaces, basements, bathrooms and damp wall voids. They can also be transported indoors through potted plants. Outdoor sources include mulch, decaying landscape timbers, leaf or grass piles, firewood or logs on the ground.