Invasive jumping worms found in at least 34 states As you tend to your garden this summer, there's a creepy, crawly creature to be on the lookout for: an invasive worm that moves like a snake ...

You may have heard of jumping worms, sometimes referred to as "snake worms." Worm castings that resemble coffee grounds on the soil's surface are likely the first thing you'll notice.

According to UC Master Gardeners Program, the jumping worms can easily clear the soil’s surface layer, which holds natural organisms.

Do not move soil, compost, or pots containing the jumping worms. It is important that you report the presence of jumping worms to the Oregon Invasive Species Council.

As they devour their way through the soil, the worms leave two things behind: cocoons and castings. The cocoons are tiny and soil-colored, so they are easy to miss.

Plants, fungi and other soil life cannot survive without humus, and “Asian jumping worms can eat all of it,” Sarah Farmer of the U.S. Forest Service wrote.

Scientists say the jumping worm has been in North America since the 19th century but has only recently been flagged as a problem.