Invasive “Jumping Worms” Could Surge In CT — See Where They’ve Been Spotted

Asian jumping worms, an invasive, soil nutrient-gobbling earthworm that can leap a foot in the air, are spreading across the country, with sightings in Connecticut.

Early reports suggests higher populations this year in Connecticut following a mild winter and early spring warmth.

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Asian jumping worms — their scientific name is Amynthas agrestis — have earned their nickname, and their reputation. They’re also called Alabama jumpers, Jersey wrigglers, wood eel, crazy worms, snake worms, and crazy snake worms.

According to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, young jumping worms hatched earlier than usual this season and are already being reported in high numbers in some areas.

A deep snow cover earlier this year, followed by unusually warm weather in March, created conditions that helped protect worm cocoons and accelerate development, said Gale Ridge, an associate scientist with the agency.

State data also shows how reports of jumping worms have changed over time, rising from 44 in 2020 to a peak of 193 in 2023 before declining in recent years.

See a town-by-town breakdown of where they’ve been reported below:

Jumping worms, also known as Amynthas agrestis, are an invasive species that have spread rapidly across the United States in recent years, with sightings reported in dozens of states.

They are known for their aggressive, thrashing movement — sometimes described as “jumping” — and can even flip themselves off the ground. Unlike typical earthworms that help aerate soil, jumping worms consume large amounts of organic material, leaving behind soil that resembles coffee grounds and is less suitable for plant growth.

The worms reproduce quickly and can generate multiple generations in a single season. Unlike many other species, they can reproduce without mating, allowing populations to grow rapidly once established.

In Connecticut, populations had shown signs of slowing in recent years due in part to natural predators — including the invasive hammerhead worm — as well as drought conditions, Ridge said. However, this year may be different.

There’s no way to completely eradicate them, experts say, but some steps to control their spread include:

• Avoid moving soil, compost or potted plants from yards if infestation is suspected.
• Inspect all potted plants and soil before moving, sharing or bringing them into gardens, and consider buying bare-root stock.
• When purchasing bulk mulch or compost, confirm it has been heat-treated to at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit for three days to kill the cocoons.
• If you find them in your garden, seal them in a plastic bag and leave it in the sun for about 10 minutes before throwing it in the trash, or drown them in soapy water, vinegar or alcohol for about 20 minutes.