Where Do Springtails Live?

Springtails' breathing system is different from many other insects. This is important because it affects where springtails can live.

Springtails do not have a typical respiratory system. They breathe through their outer shell. In order to do this, their outer shell is very soft and thin. However, since springtails’ outer skin is soft and thin, their bodies dry out very easily.

To avoid dehydration, springtails live in areas where there is a lot of moisture and high humidity. Springtails eat mold, algae and fungi that they find in these areas.

Outdoors, springtails live in forests and in irrigated fields. They are found in almost every part of the earth, from the Himalayas to Antarctica. Springtails are even found at the beach.

In urban areas, springtails thrive in areas where they can find moisture or dampness. Green spaces, nurseries, gardens and even golf courses can provide homes for springtails. Maintenance crews sometimes find springtails in malls, hotels and office buildings where they can be imported with potted plants.

In subdivisions, springtails can live under mulch, in flowerbeds and around ponds. They are common pests in swimming pools and pool houses. They also hide under landscape timbers, in water meter boxes and even under dog houses.

If their habitat starts to dry out, springtails begin to dehydrate and die. So when weather gets hot and dry, springtails often try to move indoors. They hop under doors, through screens or into crawlspaces. Once they get indoors, springtails move into areas where they find moisture.

Kitchens and bathrooms are common springtail habitats. If there has been a leaking pipe, a wall or cabinet can become a springtail habitat. People sometimes find springtails in sinks or tubs. Springtails also gather behind the appliances in laundry rooms.

Basements are common springtail habitats. Springtails also thrive in damp crawlspaces. From these areas, they can easily move into the living space.

People also find springtails in unusual places. There have been reports of springtails living in storage sheds inside of damp mattresses or upholstered furniture that has gotten wet.

Orkin specialists are trained to manage springtails. He will use Orkin’s exclusive Assess, Implement and Monitor system. Using the A.I.M. system, he designs a pest control solution for your home’s unique situation.

During the Assessment of the problem, The Orkin Pro will also identify any moisture conditions that might have allowed springtails to live in and around your home. During follow-up visits, he will inspect for any new conditions that might allow springtails to reinfest.

For more information or to schedule an inspection, please contact your local Orkin branch office.