Bug Identifier
Snow Flea
Community identification

Snow Flea

Hypogastrura nivicola

Order & Family
Order: Poduromorpha; Family: Hypogastruridae
Size
1 to 2 millimeters in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in leaf litter and soil, but most visible on the surface of snow during winter thaws across North America.

Diet & Feeding

A scavenger that feeds on decaying organic matter, fungal spores, algae, and microscopic bacteria.

Behavior Patterns

They are flightless hexapods known for their ability to jump using a tail-like structure called a furcula. They produce an anti-freeze protein that allows them to remain active in freezing temperatures.

Risks & Benefits

They are harmless to humans and pets as they do not bite. Benefits the ecosystem by decomposing organic material and recycling nutrients back into the soil.