What Are These Tiny Bugs Jumping Around in my Bathroom?

What Are These Tiny Bugs Jumping Around in my Bathroom

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During periods of damp weather, I'll ocassionally have a homeowner ask me a question like the one below:

"I've got hundreds of these tiny jumping bugs in my bathroom that jump, but they're not fleas.They're driving me crazy. What could they possibly be?"

Most often, the homeowner is experiencing an infestation of springtails.

While they are primarily and outdoor pest, springtails occasionally enter homes through small cracks and crevices. They will usually be found in bathrooms, kitchens, around plumbing pipes and under slabs. With the proper levels of moisture, they can breed and remain indoors for extended periods of time. If left unaddressed, their populations can grow to very large numbers.

These tiny jumping insects do not bite or transmit diseases, so they are more of a nusanse because of their large numbers than for any other reason. They have an appendage, called a "furcula", which loads like a spring. When threatened, they will release this spring and propel themselves away from danger.

Springtails are frequently seen around homes with moist soil and high amounts of organic debris. They prefer these types of conditions because they feed on decaying vegetation, mold and mildew. Their diet is helpful to the enviroment, as they help break down organic matter and return nutrients to the soil.

The best way to control springtails is through habitat alteration. If you have damp areas around your home, find ways to keep the locations dry with the use of drainage and/or proper ventalation. You must also elimiate the pests food source, so you'll need to rake up fallen leaves and remove moldy or decaying mulch in the landscaped areas. You should also address any plumbing leak or humitiy issues inside your home.

If altering the pest's habitat doesn't correct the problem, your safest option is to seek a pest professional for assistance.

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