Where do earthworms live?

Earthworms are native to Europe and have spread in range to western and central Asia, as well as North America. They typically can be found in two ecophysical areas: above or below the soil. Above-soil earthworms consume decaying vegetable matter. Sub-soil earthworms create either horizontal or vertical burrows.

Horizontal burrowing earthworms generally stay within 1-2 feet of the surface, emerging to the surface at night and during rain. They eat the soil as they move through it, creating a constant, shifting network of burrows. Vertical burrowing earthworms dig one, permanent burrow up to 6-feet deep, returning to the surface periodically to eat plant material.