Fleas

Behavior and Habitat of Fleas

Fleas are parasites that feed on the blood of their hosts, which are normally humans or pets. They have powerful legs that enable them to jump approximately 7 inches vertically and 14 inches horizontally. The female flea lays tiny, white eggs loosely on the hairs, in the feathers, or in the habitat of the host. The eggs readily fall off the host onto the ground, floors, bedding, or furniture. Some fleas can lay 500 eggs over a period of several months. The adult Cat flea, unlike many other fleas, remains on the host, and requires a fresh blood meal in order to successfully reproduce. The Cat flea is the most frequently found species, even on dogs and other mammals. The Dog flea, however, is rarely seen in the United States and is more common in Europe. Fleas may attack a wide variety of warm blooded animals including dogs, humans, chickens, rabbits, squirrels, rats, and mice. They are most often brought into the home on pets from outside.