Snow has been on a lot of minds this year, and here’s something you might not know: “snow fleas” are a real thing. If you live in a snowy area, there’s a chance you could come across them. The good news is, they aren’t nearly as troublesome as actual fleas.
These Are Snow Fleas In Illinois
While snow fleas aren’t technically fleas, they do resemble them quite closely. During warmer periods in the winter, when the snow starts to melt, these tiny critters can be spotted scattered across the snow, almost like little specks. Snow fleas also share the same impressive jumping ability that regular fleas are known for, making them surprisingly agile despite their small size.
Thankfully, snow fleas are much less of a nuisance than their flea relatives. They don’t bite or cause any harm to humans or pets, making them more of a curious winter phenomenon than a threat.
According to the Farmers Almanac, and other sources… “snow fleas” are not actually fleas. They also thrive in the winter.
Snow fleas are not actually fleas — and officially, they aren’t classified as insects, either, though they do look like bugs. These small wingless creatures are often referred to as “springtails,” but their scientific name is Hypogastrura harveyi or Hypogastrura nivicola, depending on the species. Snow fleas are classified as hexapods, which is a subtype of the arthropod family. Like insects, snow fleas have six legs but researchers say that they are more closely related to crustaceans.
Thankfully, snow fleas do not bite, and they have a fascinating way of surviving the cold. They are equipped with a special antifreeze-like substance in their bodies, allowing them to thrive even in freezing temperatures. This unique adaptation helps them stay active during the winter months, hopping around the snow without any trouble. It’s just another example of how nature has found incredible ways for creatures to survive in harsh environments…