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Seeing tiny flying bugs when I walk on or mow the lawn #406865

Asked June 13, 2017, 6:15 PM EDT

My lawn looks very healthy.  It has received lots of rain this year and is growing quickly and normally.

When I walk on it with each footstep I see maybe 10-20 small bugs that are very tiny (maybe a millimeter or two) that fly or jump perhaps 10-20 cm.  I have seen the same thing in previous years especially early in the season but they are more noticeable this year and seem to be everywhere on the lawn.

Because they lawn is healthy looking I'm not too concerned, and these are not bothersome other than simply wondering what they are.  I do not receive any "bug bites" after walking across the lawn. 

How can I figure out what they are and if they are a problem or just a nuisance. 

Thanks

Boulder County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi,  I think what you discribe are Leafhoppers.  I have included a fact sheet from the CSU extension office.  Hope it answers some of your questions.  http://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/insects/leafhoppers-on-lawns-5-608/
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 14, 2017, 12:12 PM EDT

Thank you.

I think you are correct. What I see fits the description of Leafhoppers in the fact sheet perfectly. I'll keep an eye on it and see what happens.

My guess is with all the May rain it was just a perfect year for them when it finally warmed up.

The good news is I don't need to worry about it as it will probably fade as the year goes along. With all the birds, rabbits, wasps (parchment wasps here I think) etc in the yard I try to not use anything for control unless it's really necessary.

Thanks again.

The Question Asker Replied June 16, 2017, 11:46 AM EDT

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