Invasive ‘crazy worm’ popping up in Ohio

Wildlife officials across the U.S. are cautioning gardeners to be on the lookout for an “invasive, aggressive species” of worm that damages soil—the Asian Jumping Worm has made its way to Ohio. 

In April, the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) issued an invasive pest alert to increase public awareness and caution residents. Known for their snakelike movements and thrashing when disturbed, they are also called “crazy worms” or “snake worms”. 

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The CDA said, “Jumping worms are a group of aggressive, invasive earthworms that are rapidly spreading across the United States. While many earthworms are beneficial to the soil, adding nutrients for plants and helping with soil aeration, the jumping worm poses a significant ecological and economic threat. It lives on the soil surface, rapidly consuming organic matter and leaf litter, which strips the soil of the critical layer needed to support native plants, wildflowers, and forest ecosystems.” 

While they resemble earth worms, crazy worms can be distinguished by their white band, and darker, glossy tone. According to the Ohio Department of Agriculture, there are no current regulations or recommendations related to the worms in Ohio. In addition to Ohio and Colorado, the worms have been found in numerous states including Michigan and Kentucky. You can read the full CDA statement here. 

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