What Are Snow Fleas? All About The Wisconsin Creature
Welp, we officially got our first snowfall of the season in Minnesota and Wisconsin. We saw some light but accumulating snow on Sunday (November 24th) into Monday.
When all was said and done, we got a few inches of snow and nothing crazy. Despite a slick morning commute, it wasn't too bad. It does mean that snow fleas could appear anytime now, though.
You probably weren't even thinking about snow fleas. Maybe you didn't even know they exist! Now you do and I am sorry because they are kind of gross.
However, you should be aware of them if you live in a snowy place like Wisconsin. They thrive in cold climates and appear with the first snow. Yay?
What To Know About Snow Fleas
Despite their name, these little guys aren't actually fleas. They are often called fleas because they jump like fleas but that is a bit deceiving. They are harmless, wingless creatures.
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According to the Old Farmer's Almanac, snow fleas have six legs. However, they aren't classified as an insect. Snow fleas can jump up to several inches in one leap, despite how small they are.
That's Not All...
Snow fleas produce their own type of anti-freeze which allows them to thrive in the winter. This is why they appear in the winter in our cold climate.
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Perhaps the most interesting thing about them is that, while they do stick out in the snow, you've probably come across them a ton of times without even noticing it. They are only a few millimeters.
Keep your eyes peeled around tree trunks if you want to see them! In terms of things we have to deal with in the winter, this isn't so bad. They are better than mosquitoes.
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Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart