Froghoppers and Spittlebugs

insects · jumping · foam · plant-eaters

Incredible jumpers. Froghoppers can leap many times their own height and length, making them some of the best jumpers in the insect world. It's like if you could jump over a five-story building!

Foam shelter builders. Baby spittlebugs (nymphs) suck juice from plants and turn it into bubbles to create a protective foam nest. This foam keeps them safe from predators and keeps them from drying out.

Two names, one insect. These insects are called froghoppers because adults can jump like tiny frogs, but they are also called spittlebugs because the nymphs produce that bubbly, spit-like foam on plants.

Plant juice drinkers. Both adult and baby froghoppers use a special straw-like mouth to pierce plants and drink the juice inside. They are found all over the world on grasses, shrubs, and trees.