Snow Flea

Found in leaf litter and soil, but most visible on the surface of snow near the base of trees in late winter/early spring.

Feeds on decaying organic matter, fungal spores, algae, and bacteria in the soil.

They are most active in late winter when they emerge onto snow surfaces in large colonies. They move by using a tail-like structure called a furcula to catapult themselves into the air. They possess a special protein that acts as an anti-freeze, allowing them to remain active in sub-zero temperatures.

They are harmless to humans, pets, and structures. They benefit the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and returning nutrients to the soil.