Feature: Bare Trees and Snow Fleas

Snow fleas are really not fleas at all, but a type of insect called a springtail. Springtails get their name because they jump by means of a structure on their abdomen called a furculum. They are very small, about 1/16 inch long, and are usually dark with a short antennae. They must be near moisture and some species prefer snow. However, snow fleas and other springtails can live outdoors in snow, soil, leaf litter, mosses, fungi, and in areas by pools, hot tubs, and overly well-irrigated lawns.

If you find springtails indoors, this often indicates that you have a moisture problem or plumbing leak. Their numbers can explode into large populations if left untreated.

They eat dead plant matter, bacteria, fungi, algae and pollen. (They do not feed upon the blood of mammals or other hosts like real fleas do.) In fact, they cause no harm, but their presence, often in great numbers, can be considered a nuisance by a homeowner.

During very cold winter days snow fleas are not very active, but if temperatures warm up, they will become active, hopping around on snow mounds and banks looking for food. They look like a fine black dust or pepper, against the white background of the snow.

Snow fleas are useful outdoors because they help break down old dead plant matter and other items in the ground. However, in large numbers they are not welcome. So, if you see a blooming population of snow fleas or springtails around moist areas of your home, give us a call! Let Connor's Pest Protection take care of controlling the snow fleas.