Fleas

FLEAS (Ctenocephalidesfelis)

Description:
Adult fleas are difficult to see and identify. They are wingless insects, approximately 1/8 inch long and reddish-brown or black. They are slim, compressed-looking from side to side, and can appear to be walking “on edge”. Cat fleas are the most frequently encountered fleas. Since they are common pests on domestic cats and dogs, fleas or their larvae may be transferred by humans having personal contact with them.

Biology:
Fleas have piercing-sucking mouthparts which they use to obtain blood from their host animal. Flea larvae develop more quickly at higher temperatures. When temperatures are cool, fully formed fleas can remain in their cocoons for up to 12 months. Warm temperatures and carpet vibrations will stimulate the emergence of new fleas. Fleas can be found on pets throughout the year, but their numbers tend to increase dramatically during the spring and early summer.

Did You Know?

Fleas have been around for millions of years, and fossils found in China suggest that dinosaurs may have had them too. The oldest fleas were up to 10 times larger than modern fleas and had tough mouthparts to break through the tough dinosaur skin.

Impact:
Fleas can transmit disease and parasites to humans and animals. Fleas readily try to feed on almost any warm-blooded animal. Bites tend to be concentrated on the lower legs but can happen anywhere. In commercial environments, a flea infestation can disrupt a whole office and cause a costly shutdown until the pest problem is eliminated.

Solutions:
The best solution is prevention. Effective products aimed at controlling fleas on pets have made flea management, without pesticide sprays, feasible in many situations. Controlling common fleas in office environments requires a multi-level approach including insecticidal growth inhibitors, sanitation, and monitoring.