Springtails and fleas are both small insects that can jump, which is why they’re often confused. But the similarities pretty much end there.
The purpose of this article is to help you tell the difference between these two tiny critters. We’ll cover their appearance, biology, and the impact they can have on your health and home.
The biggest difference between a springtail vs flea is that fleas are a health concern. They bite and can transmit diseases. Springtails, on the other hand, are mostly just a nuisance.
How to Tell the Difference: Appearance and Identification
At first glance, fleas and springtails can be difficult to tell apart, but if you know what to look for, you can quickly identify which critter you’re dealing with.
Fleas: Physical Characteristics
Fleas are small—usually no more than an eighth of an inch long—wingless, reddish-brown insects with a flattened body shape that allows them to move easily through fur or feathers.
Fleas have piercing mouthparts, which they use to feed on the blood of their hosts.
Springtails: Physical Characteristics
Springtails are tiny, often smaller than fleas, and they come in a variety of colors. Because of their size and tendency to jump, they are often mistaken for fleas.
The key to identifying a springtail is to look for its furcula, a forked, spring-like appendage tucked under its abdomen. When threatened, the springtail releases the furcula, propelling itself into the air—sometimes several inches—which is how it got its name.
Springtails are very small, usually around one-sixteenth of an inch long.
Biology and Habitat: Fleas vs. Springtails
Fleas and springtails differ in their life cycles, diets, and preferred habitats.
Flea Biology and Habitat
Fleas go through complete metamorphosis, meaning they have a larval and pupal stage. Adult fleas lay eggs, which hatch into larvae. The larvae feed on organic debris before forming pupae, which eventually hatch into adult fleas.
Fleas often originate from pets, so you’ll find them on your dog or cat, or in areas where your pet spends time, like carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding.
Springtail Biology and Habitat
Springtails have a more varied diet than fleas, feeding on mold and fungi.
They are attracted to moist environments, so they’re commonly found outdoors in soil, leaf litter, and under rocks. Springtails can also infest homes and yards, especially in damp areas.
Damage and Health Implications: Understanding the Risks
Fleas and springtails differ significantly when it comes to the damage they can inflict and the health risks they pose.
Flea Bites and Health Risks
Flea bites are no fun. They can be painful and cause intense itching, irritation, and allergic reactions in both humans and pets.
Fleas can also transmit diseases and parasites, and flea infestations can lead to hair loss in animals.
Springtails: Nuisance Pests
Springtails, on the other hand, are generally considered nuisance pests. They don’t bite, sting, or transmit diseases.
However, a large number of springtails in your home may indicate a moisture problem, and springtails can appear in huge numbers, especially in damp areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
How to get rid of springtails
If you have springtails, you absolutely must control the moisture in and around your home. Without moisture, springtails can’t survive.
Here are some ways to discourage springtails from settling in:
- Repair leaky faucets and pipes.
- Seal your basement and attic.
- Remove piles of damp leaves and other vegetation.
- Dry out low, moist areas and crawl spaces.
Besides controlling moisture, you can also sweep and vacuum them up.
Treating Springtails and Fleas
Flea treatments focus on the animal and its environment. You may need to treat your pets, carpets, and yard.
But springtail treatments focus on moisture control. Insecticides aren’t usually recommended for springtail infestations. You have to get rid of the moisture to get rid of springtails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will springtails eventually go away?
Yes, usually. Springtails thrive in damp environments. If you address the moisture issue – whether it’s a leaky pipe, overwatered plants, or poor ventilation – the springtails will typically disappear on their own once their preferred habitat is no longer hospitable. They’ll go look for a damper place to live.
Will springtails infest my house?
While springtails can be a nuisance, they don’t typically infest homes in the same way as fleas or termites. They’re more of a temporary inconvenience related to moisture. They don’t bite, sting, or cause structural damage. If you see them inside, it’s a sign you have a damp area that needs attention.
How do I get rid of springtails?
The best way to get rid of springtails is to eliminate their moisture source. Dry out damp areas with fans or dehumidifiers. Fix leaky pipes and improve ventilation. For severe infestations, consider using a mild insecticide specifically labeled for indoor use, but focus on addressing the underlying moisture problem first.
How do I know if I have fleas or springtails?
Fleas are reddish-brown, wingless insects that jump and bite, and are typically found on pets or near their resting areas. Springtails are tiny, often white or gray, and are usually found in damp areas like bathrooms or kitchens. They also jump, but don’t bite. A close look will reveal the difference, and the absence of bites is a good clue it’s springtails.
Key Takeaways
Fleas are parasites that bite and can transmit diseases, while springtails are just annoying pests attracted to moisture. Knowing the difference between the two is important for getting rid of them.
Springtails are usually a DIY fix, but if you’ve got fleas, you might want to call a professional pest control service to help.