Jumping is a method some animals have evolved to get around efficiently. Gerbils, kangaroos, frogs and grasshoppers have all evolved long pairs of legs with large muscles positioned at the back of their body for maximum hopping power. Other mechanisms include the spring-like 'tail' of the aptly named springtail, which is coiled under tension so that when it's released the animal is propelled upwards.

Did you know?
A springtail's leap is equivalent to a human jumping over the Eiffel Tower.


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