Earthworm

Moist, organically rich soil, gardens, lawns, compost, and leaf litter. This individual is exposed in freshly disturbed ground.

Consumes decaying leaves, plant residues, microorganisms, and soil organic matter, passing soil through its digestive tract.

Burrows through soil, usually avoiding light and drying conditions. Hermaphroditic adults mate with one another and produce cocoons; activity increases after rain or during damp nights.

Generally harmless to people and pets. Earthworms improve soil aeration, drainage, nutrient cycling, and aggregation, though some nonnative species can alter forest-soil ecosystems.