Scuds or Sideswimmers

6345 I keep finding these all over my patio rug. Can’t seem to figure out what they are or how they keep turning up since I have a screened in patio. There are hundreds of them. Most seem to be dead but there are some that seem to jump around. They just stared to turn up early March. From Myrtle Beach, USA

Number 6345 These are amphipods, crustaceans also known as scuds or sideswimmers. Most species are aquatic, but a few (such as yours) may be found on very damp/wet soil or other surfaces. These species sometimes are referred to as ‘lawn shrimp’ and are harmless; Click here for more detailed information.