Crazy Snake Worm (jumping worm) (Amynthas spp.) on May 17, 2021
Submitter has sample
Description of specimen
These are grey but they have the complete light ring around them and do wiggle and jump right out of my shovel sometimes. They're very quick.
Commentary
None
Remedy
Due to the difficulty in removing worms once established, the focus is on preventing the spread once they are established in an area. See the Jumping Worms fact sheet for Homeowners from the Jumping Worm Outreach, Research, & Management Working Group for tips.
Resources
Also called Jumping Worm, these worms are known for their erratic jumping movements when disturbed. Learn more about how to compare jumping worms with some other commonly encountered worms in Oregon, along with other facts and fun activities, from this publication: Jumping Worms: a guide to identifying a new invasive species in the Pacific Northwest
in heavily mulched area , from the local wood chip site.
Expert Reviewer
Mrs. Lindsey Wise Oregon Biodiversity Information Center, inr.oregonstate.edu/orbic Oregon iMapInvasives Institute for Natural Resources Portland State University