IDENTIFICATION
Springtails are among the smallest insects in the home landscape. Typical species are about .04 inch or 1 mm long, barely visible to the eye. Under a handlens or microscope the most distinctive physical characteristic of springtails is their long tail, which is normally kept folded under the body. This tail, when sprung from its folded position, causes these insects to jump, much like a flea.
Springtails come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes, but to the human eye usually appear as small, grey specks. Springtails can be distinguished from fleas by their appearance and much smaller size. Unlike fleas, springtails do not bite and will not infest or annoy people.