Springtails

What Are Springtails?

Jumping when startled, springtails are unique pests that have the potential to invade our Dallas properties and homes in the thousands. Their ability to jump causes many people to confuse these pests with fleas.

Some differences between springtails and fleas:

• Springtails do not feed on our blood.
• Springtails have a soft body, while fleas have a hard body.
• Fleas use their legs to jump, springtails use a furcula.
• Fleas are insects and springtails are not. Springtails are a species of hexapod - a close relative of insects.

Springtails are soft-bodied pests and appear gray to the human eye. Adults only grow to about 1/16th of an inch. Tucked up underneath the abdomen of the springtail is the furcula. When a springtail is fearful, they force fluid into the base of the furcula causing it to hit the surface below, propelling the springtail forward.

Springtail Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are springtails dangerous?

Springtails do not pose any direct threats to people and they are not destructive. They don’t cause damage to plants or the structure of our homes.

They do however have the ability to become a huge annoyance. They invade in large numbers, are difficult to control, and just the slightest bit of moisture has the potential to attract them to your yard and/or home.

Why do I have a springtail problem?

Springtails are on your property because they have discovered it offers them a suitable environment to feed and breed.

These tiny pests feed on things like decaying plants, fungi, molds, and algae that are common in garden areas, the soil around foundations or pools, or in low-lying areas that collect water in your driveway or lawn.

Any property or home with moisture issues has the potential to be host to springtails and other pests with high moisture needs.

Where will I find springtails?

There are many areas where you will find springtails congregating:

• Water puddles
• Soil bordering pools
• Damp soil under leaf piles, mulch, or other organic debris
• Underneath outdoor rugs, welcome mats, or potted plants
• Under dripping air-conditioning units

How do I get rid of springtails?

Get rid of springtails with the help of the professionals at All-Safe Pest & Termite. We will quickly come to your aid and accurately identify a springtail infestation and put into place a plan of action to eliminate these annoying pests.

Our experienced professionals provide top-quality pest control services using the latest and most effective products to eliminate springtails from Dallas properties. If you are ready to rid your property of jumping springtails, reach out to All-Safe Pest & Termite today!

How can I prevent springtails in the future?

Prevent problems with springtails by partnering with All-Safe Pest & Termite and by implementing the following prevention tips:

• Run a dehumidifier in your home to help reduce excess moisture.
• Use a ventilating fan in the kitchen and bathroom to help lower humidity levels within your home.
• Make sure gutters are working to direct water away from your home so it does not pool against your home’s foundation.
• Remove leaf and brush piles from your yard that may allow rainwater to pool.
• Inspect your home’s foundation sealing any tiny gaps or crevices you discover.
• If you have outdoor rugs or potted plants, routinely move them around to different areas of your yard/deck to eliminate any moisture from becoming trapped underneath them.
• Repair damaged wooden trim around exterior doors, sliding glass doors, and/or basement doors.