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Photo: G. Bradley
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UK
Safari Tip:
A great way to see all the details on springtails and other small
creatures is with a powerful hand lens - click
here
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Latin name: Entomobrya nivalis
Size: Length can be 0.5mms up to 6mms, depending on the species
Distribution: Found throughout the UK.
Months seen: All year round
Food: Living and dead vegetation
Habitat: Anywhere where food can be found including compost heaps and leaf
litter.
Special features: The name comes from a special forked tail which the
insect keeps folded underneath its abdomen. The tail is held in place with a
small latch, and when it's released, the tail drops rapidly down to the ground
and propels the insect into the air.
There are around 250 different species of springtail. Some are rounded, but most
have an elongated body, six legs (insects) and two antennae. They feed on
anything from rotting leaves to bacteria.
Close up Photo of a Springtail
UK Safari Creepy-Crawlies Section
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