Backyard Jungle's resident worms

Earthworm
by Babsi

Earthworm
by Sea Lady

Slime Ball!
by RockChick

Factoids

Earthworms do not like light and should be covered with a wet paper towel as much as possible.

Earthworms help break down plant and animal residues into useable nutrients for plants and other soil organisms.

Do not put "store-bought" worms into your garden. It is important not to introduce new earthworm species into soil.

Earthworms create tiny holes in the soil as they move through it. This helps the soil retain enough water, so that it can grow things like food!

Soils with earthworms contain more air and also fill and drain water faster.

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Worm Safari

Find as many worms as you can and measure them. You may find the longest worm in the history of Backyard Jungle!

Here's What You Do

1. Lay down your dripping-wet towel, blanket or sheet on the nice moist spot you found.
2. Let 1 or 2 hours pass. The worms will make their way to the moisture on the surface of your towel.
3. Collect your worms and count how many you found. Write down that number and make sure you add it to your discovery.
4. Photograph the worms next to an AA battery or a soda can. Measure your worms and find the longest one. Write down the length.
5. Upload the pictures of your worms or submit your drawings as discoveries on Backyard Jungle. Hey, don't forget to tell us how long was the longest worm you found!