They hatch in late spring in 1-4 inches of soil.Jumping worms live for only one season.They can move across the ground in an “S” pattern like a snake. These worms may jump and wiggle noticeably when disturbed.The clitellum is located 1/3 the length down the worm from the head, and it is smooth, cloudy-white and constricted, unlike the swelled saddle-like clitellum of European earthworms.They are similar in size to other earthworms such as nightcrawlers or some of the larger angle worms, but their clitellum (collar-like ring) and coloring are different.Jumping worms can be 1-1/2 to 8 inches or more in length.To access all of the lessons in this Earthworms Lapbook, subscribe to Homeschool Share’s email list using the form in this post.The ring (clitellum) on a jumping worm encircles the whole body evenly and is barely raised above the skin. Photo by Alfredo Eloisa, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0. The worm digs them into the soil, using them like little anchors. A worm’s bristles are very important in helping it move. It anchors the front of its body and brings up the rear. Then it stretches its body to push through the soil. It anchors its body and the head end becomes thicker. The dampness of its body make it move easily through the soil.Ī worm moves by pointing its head in the direction it wants to go. These make the worm’s body shrink or spread out. There are ring shaped muscles inside each segment. Worms have strong muscles to help them move.

They push down a few feet below the surface, then coil up and go to sleep. Some worms burrow deeper underground when the weather is too cold or too dry. As it drains, the soil becomes looser and finer, so it is easier for plants to grow. Worm tunnels make airy spaces under the soil.

This makes the soil (the tunnel) stronger. As the worm moves forward, it’s body coats the soil with slime. Here are some sample lessons from the Earthworms Lapbook:Īn earthworm makes tunnels by pushing its way into the soil and eating it. Thanks to Lynn Pitts for writing the research for this Earthworms Lapbook.

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