Springtails are tiny hexapods that can leap great distances when they get startled. These pests are relatively harmless to humans, but their numbers can quickly spiral out of control and become a terrible nuisance. Whether you're fighting an infestation, or you are simply curious about these unique little creatures, you've come to the right place. In this post, we'll outline everything you need to know about springtails, including the best way to get rid of them.
What Do Springtails Look Like?
Springtails are tiny, soft-bodied arthropods with grey shells. They can sometimes be mistaken for fleas because they look somewhat similar, and both can leap large distances. However, springtails aren't even insects at all, but hexapods, a close relative distinguished by their external mouthparts. They also don't use their legs to jump, but their tails, are called furcula.
Are Springtails Dangerous To Have In My Houston Home?
Springtails are not directly dangerous to humans, nor do they pose any significant threat to your property, but they can often amass in unmanageable numbers and become a massive nuisance. They are rather prolific and will gather relentlessly around even the smallest source of moisture. If you keep a garden, they might especially become a menace, as they are well known to feed on tubers.
Why Do I Have Springtails In My Houston Home?
More so than most pests, springtails are especially attracted to places of high moisture content and humidity. If you're finding springtails around your home, do your best to check for any possible sources of excess moisture. This includes areas both indoors and outdoors, if they are in your lawn, it is often only a matter of time before they make their way into your home, especially if there are any leaks or other moisture problems left unattended or unnoticed. If you need some tips on detecting springtails in your Houston home, here are a few of their more common haunts:
- Puddles
- Mulch piles
- Leaf piles
- Moist soil
- Near gardens or potted plants
How Do I Get Rid Of Springtails In My Houston Home?
If you just need some tips on getting rid of springtails or preventing them from taking root, here are a few of the basics:
- Eliminate any potential source of excess moisture around your property.
- Declutter around your property, especially anywhere with leaf or mulch piles or other organic debris.
- Inspect your foundation and the exterior walls of your home, and repair any cracks or crevices you may find.
- Install door sweeps and bug screens.
- Orient your gutters so that they direct water away from your home.
- Ensure your ventilation systems are working well.
- Inspect any gardens or potted plants thoroughly.
- Consider investing in a dehumidifier to further reduce any temptation for the bugs to move into your home.
- Partner with the knowledgeable professionals at All-Pest for ongoing guidance.
It can be incredibly challenging to remove springtails from your property, especially if you're going at it by yourself. At the end of the day, the easiest and most effective way to get rid of these prolific pests will always be to contact the professionals for help.
Partner with the experts at All-Safe Pest & Termite for complete protection from any potential pest. Our highly trained technicians use only the cutting edge in technology and techniques, with over thirty years of experience and knowledge backing you up. We'll take care of the present problem promptly, but All-Safe's treatment plan doesn't stop there. Just in case of the unlikely event that any pests crop up again, we'll revisit regularly to revise your custom pest control plan. Reach out to us today to learn more about springtail control and our year-round pest control options!