Bug Identifier
Spittlebug or Froghopper
Community identification

Spittlebug or Froghopper

Cercopoidea superfamily

Order & Family
Order Hemiptera, Family Cercopidae
Size
6 to 10 millimeters
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in meadows, gardens, forests, and fields on various herbaceous plants, grasses, and woody stems.

Diet & Feeding

Plant sap, fed upon by piercing and sucking plant tissues using a specialized straw-like mouthpart.

Behavior Patterns

Nymphs create a frothy, spittle-like mass from plant sap and excreted fluid to hide from predators and retain moisture. Adults are strong jumpers, capable of leaping remarkable distances relative to their size.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a minor garden pest when present in large numbers as they can weaken plant shoots, but they rarely cause significant economic damage and serve as a vital food source for birds and spiders.