What Are Snow Fleas?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. What are snow fleas?

The Big Idea

Snow fleas are tiny black specks that hop around on the snow, but they are not real fleas! They do not bite people or pets. They are tiny animals called springtails. Let's meet these snow hoppers!

Tiny Black Specks

Step one: tiny black specks. On warm winter days, snow fleas sometimes hop across the snow like pepper that has come to life. You need to look very closely to see them, because each one is smaller than a grain of rice.

Springtails

Step two: a spring-loaded tail. Snow fleas are springtails, tiny relatives of insects. A spring-like tail tucks under the body, and it flings them into the air.

Antifreeze Snack

Step three: stay unfrozen and eat. Antifreeze proteins keep snow fleas from freezing. And they munch on bits of rotting leaves, which helps recycle nature's leftovers.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Snow fleas look like tiny black specks on the snow. A springy tail launches them into the air. Antifreeze proteins keep them from freezing. And they snack on tiny bits of old leaves.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Snow fleas live in Canada and the northern United States, not only at the poles. They are not true fleas and do not bite. Springtails live all over the world, and there are thousands of kinds. Explore snowy places with a grown-up.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! On a snowy day, look closely at the snow beside tree trunks with a grown-up. Do you see tiny hopping specks? Take a photo to share with someone you love! Share what you discover with a grown-up.

Outro

Snow fleas are tiny springtails that hop on snow. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!