Hi Cindy,

That looks like a Springtail (Class Entognatha: Order Collembola).

Springtails are minute, primitive insects that can occur in enormous numbers (50,000 per cubic foot) in forest litter and organic soils. Springtails can be found outdoors in any moist situation, usually feeding on algae, fungi and decaying vegetation. Springtails are extremely sensitive to moisture, if their normal environment becomes dry, they will actively seek moisture, sometimes invading homes and similar structures where they are most commonly found near sources of moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms. Despite what is stated on certain websites on the internet, these insects are not known to infest people or pets, bite or cause damage to stored food, wood or fabrics. Springtails can persist indoors if adequate moisture is found and if fungi, mildew or decaying vegetable matter exist in sufficient quantities, but in general, they are only occasional or incidental visitors in structures.

If springtails persist indoors, the best control is to do everything possible to prevent their entry from the outside, decrease the humidity and moisture, and remove anything found to be moldy or in a state of decay. Some springtails appear to be quite resistant to insecticides. Several people have reported they have been unable to control springtail invasions with insecticides, even with multiple applications by professional pest control companies. Widely available insecticides like Sevin, cyfluthrin (sold as Bayer Advanced Home Insect Control) and bifenthrin (sold as Ortho Home Defense) have in some cases failed to reduce springtail populations. You can try treating the exterior walls and foundations with these products but do not be surprised if your springtail problem continues unabated. Be sure to read and follow all instructions on the label before using any pesticide.

Regards,
Howard

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