Have You Seen These Wild “Jumping Worms” in Maine?

This week is National Invasive Species Awareness Week, and Maine officials are warning residents about a growing problem that is literally right under our feet.

According to WMTW, jumping worms have now been confirmed in 13 of Maine’s 16 counties. State officials say the invasive species is spreading and becoming a bigger concern each year. The worms were first discovered in Maine just over a decade ago and get their name from the way they thrash wildly when disturbed, almost like a small snake. By late summer, adult worms can be identified by a smooth, milky white band around their bodies.

The news station said that while the worms die off during the winter months, their tiny cocoons survive in the soil. Those cocoons can easily spread through mulch, compost, potted plants, and even on muddy boots or garden tools.

Experts say there are currently no approved pesticides to eliminate jumping worms, and they strongly discourage do it yourself treatments. According to State Horticulturist Gary Fish, the worms consume large amounts of leaf litter and organic material. In forests and gardens, they can quickly devour compost and mulch, disrupting soil health and damaging ecosystems.

Officials are asking anyone who believes they have found jumping worms to report them, especially in towns that have not yet had confirmed cases. Tracking reports helps the state monitor the spread and better understand how to slow it down.

If you garden, hike, or landscape, it may be worth keeping an eye on your soil this season.