Jumping Worms Are Invading America

Invasive jumping worms are damaging gardens in South Carolina and beyond. Experts say these wrigglers can jump up to a foot off the ground when they're done eating leaves and then burrow into the soil. Experts say they can damage or destroy plants, vegetable gardens, your lawn and even the soil's ecosystem.

Once solid soil begins to look like coffee grounds where the worms inhabit. These pests look a little bit different from earthworms, with their grey bodies and white collars, and are more snake-like with their slithery and thrashing moves. They've turned up in 38 states!

If you locate jumping worms in your yard, you can report your findings to your local Clemson University Cooperative Extension Office to help them track the spread of this invasive species in South Carolina.

You're advised to bag it, freeze it or leave it in the sun for six hours and then throw it out. They die in 100 degree or sub 20 degree temps. Though they can survive if they get deep enough into the ground.