Skip Navigation

Springtails

What is a Springtail?

Springtails, or Collembola, are closely related to insects but are in a group of 6 legged arthropods now considered apart from insects. Tiny and soft-bodied, the Springtail ranges in size from 1mm to 6mm and tends to dwell in soil, leaf litter and other humid areas. Inside homes, they are commonly found around window sills damaged by moisture, or around showers, tubs, and sink areas.

Although they occur in a range of colors, to the naked eye they may simply appear as a very small grayish speck that moves, or “jumps.” While a springtail cannot actually jump with any of its six legs, it gets its name from an appendage (resembling a tail) that is used to hurl the springtail into the air and away from predators when it is feeling threatened.

Why do I have them?

Although Springtails typically reside in soil outdoors they will invade homes where humid conditions are present. Areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and damp basements are likely spots to find these creatures. They are also found around window frames and if there are overwatered potted plants you’ll find springtails in abundance.

Request Your Pest Control Estimate

Frequently Asked Questions

Springtails are not dangerous to people, pets or established plants and will not damage your home. They are considered a nuisance pest by their presence.

Reducing moisture in your home will discourage Springtail activity; however, calling American Pest at the first sign of an infestation is the best way to ensure your property is kept free of Springtails and other pests.

There are pest control products available for common household pests but they are generally ineffective unless proper, continued maintenance is carried out.

At American Pest we strive to give our customers a rapid, efficient service and make every effort to be with you the same or very next day.

All products used by American Pest are EPA registered for pest control use. Only then can they be considered for use by our highly trained pest control professionals. You can be assured that pest control services provided by American Pest will not cause any harm to humans or pets.

Lowering the humidity and eliminating moisture may help control Springtails but if your property has already been infested by these tiny creatures, your first call should be to American Pest. We are committed to improving the quality of life for all of our customers by providing the safest and most effective treatment for the management of pests which pose a threat to their health, property, and food supply.

Trusted by 30,000+ Homes & Businesses

“American Pest service technicians are always willing to take their time and listen to concerns, answer questions and crawl around checking out areas that may show signs of intruding insects or rodents.”

V. MaierSilver Spring, MD

“I wanted to write to say how impressed I am with your entire crew and the general way you operate. Everyone who entered my home was sympathetic, sensitive, competent, and respectful. I think what stands out was the way your company understood, and expressed in its own way, the psychological damage that bed bugs inflict.”

E. SmithRockville, MD

“Everyone at this company is wonderful to work with – whether it’s customer service, billing, technicians and even the web team! I love this company!”

J. EvansBeltsville, MD

“I called American Pest because of an ant problem but they wound up treating so much more. Great conversation with the main office and the tech who came to the house was incredibly punctual, courteous, extremely knowledgeable/excited about his work. Happy to say I no longer share the house with ants or any other insects!”

J. DaviesSevern, MD

“Excellent service!! Our rep was great, answered all our questions, and explained things well. Had a lot of spiders and other crawlers; nothing since our service!! Would highly recommend!!”

L. HernandezRichmond, VA

Contact Us Today!

Do you need an estimate for service or have questions about pests? We’d love to hear from you!

Fill out the form and receive feedback today.  For immediate service, please give us a call!

Contact Us

Scroll to top