COMMON PESTS
Springtails
Springtails are small (about 1/16th) inch), elongated, and generally dark-colored, tiny, wingless insects that can flip into the air, giving them the appearance of tiny fleas. They have a forked appendage that allows them to jump. They would go completely unnoticed except that hundreds of them can accumulate on surfaces like a small, dusty gray carpet that moves. In nature, they are very abundant in soil and leaf litter where they play an important role in decomposing and recycling organic matter. They feed on algae, fungi, and decaying vegetable matter.
Springtails are an occasionally nuisances inside homes. Because of their small size, they can easily enter under doors and through small cracks in the foundation. They are associated with damp conditions, which may be in an area near a plumbing leak or excess condensation. Springtails may also be found in the soil of a potted plant, especially if it is over watered. They don’t cause any particular damage but can be annoying, particularly when they occur in high numbers. To help control springtails, remove leaves, mulch and other organic material from around the foundation. Seal any obvious cracks and spaces in the foundation. Be sure water drains away from the foundation. Inside the home, dry out areas where springtails are found by correcting leaks or condensation problems. Use of a fan or dehumidifier helps dry out an area and reduce springtail numbers. Springtails are generally a temporary problem and die when moisture is reduced. If a serious springtails problem is suspected the professionals at SAWYER can create a custom treatment service to eliminate the issue.
Springtails are small (about 1/16th) inch), elongated, and generally dark-colored, tiny, wingless insects that can flip into the air, giving them the appearance of tiny fleas. They have a forked appendage that allows them to jump. They would go completely unnoticed except that hundreds of them can accumulate on surfaces like a small, dusty gray carpet that moves. In nature, they are very abundant in soil and leaf litter where they play an important role in decomposing and recycling organic matter. They feed on algae, fungi, and decaying vegetable matter.
Springtails are an occasionally nuisances inside homes. Because of their small size, they can easily enter under doors and through small cracks in the foundation. They are associated with damp conditions, which may be in an area near a plumbing leak or excess condensation. Springtails may also be found in the soil of a potted plant, especially if it is over watered. They don’t cause any particular damage but can be annoying, particularly when they occur in high numbers. To help control springtails, remove leaves, mulch and other organic material from around the foundation. Seal any obvious cracks and spaces in the foundation. Be sure water drains away from the foundation. Inside the home, dry out areas where springtails are found by correcting leaks or condensation problems. Use of a fan or dehumidifier helps dry out an area and reduce springtail numbers. Springtails are generally a temporary problem and die when moisture is reduced. If a serious springtails problem is suspected the professionals at SAWYER can create a custom treatment service to eliminate the issue.
