Springtail Identification & Prevention

Springtails are small, wingless arthropods especially common in moist, humid environments. They are usually brown or black, measure about 1/16 of an inch, and are very difficult to spot. They get their name from their unique jumping ability, where they use a furcula (spring-like structure) to propel themselves into the air. Some species of springtails can even survive the winter using a special protein in their body to survive the harsh temperatures.

No, springtails are generally not dangerous. They do not bite, sting, or transmit diseases, so they rarely present any physical danger to humans. However, a large number of springtails in your house can be annoying, not to mention unsightly, so it's important to take steps for proper prevention and elimination.

Springtails are usually a sign of excess moisture in the home. They thrive in moist areas and will enter your house through cracks, crevices, or even on pets or come in through open doors and windows. If you have noticed an increase in springtail activity in your home, it could be because of humid conditions caused by poor ventilation or leaky pipes.

Springtails can be found in dark and moist areas around your house, such as under kitchen sinks, near leaky pipes, or in basements. Springtails in bathrooms are also common, especially around shower stalls and bathtubs. They may also gravitate to potted plants that are kept indoors and absorb moisture from the soil. In your garden, they may feed on decaying organic matter found in mulch or compost piles.

To get rid of springtails, find and eliminate the sources of moisture that are attracting them in the first place. You can start by inspecting areas of your home or garden where you've seen them and look for potential areas of water leakage or poor ventilation where moisture accumulates. Make sure all windows, doors, and screens remain tightly sealed to keep out any unwanted pests. Additionally, inspect plants both indoors and out for signs of an infestation as well as mulch piles in gardens.

If you need help getting rid of these pests, Combat Pest Control offers customized springtail solutions tailored to your needs. Our experienced pest control technicians will help identify areas where these arthropods have entered the premises and use targeted solutions to eliminate them. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our springtail pest control services.

There are a few simple steps you can take to help prevent springtails from entering your house: 

• Reduce sources of excess moisture in and around the home, such as leaky faucets, clogged gutters, and standing water. 
• Seal cracks or gaps in walls and foundations to prevent springtails from gaining access to your house. 
• Remove piles of leaves, mulch, or other organic material near the exterior walls of your home. 
• Properly seal doors and windows and keep them closed. 

Taking these steps will help stop future outbreaks from occurring. If you keep seeing these pests even after taking preventive measures, contact Combat Pest Control about our professional springtail control services. We'll work with you to create a customized solution to eliminate your springtail problem for good. Reach out today to get started and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services.