Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that can infest homes and animals, leading to discomfort and potential health concerns. Understanding their appearance and behavior is key to identifying a potential infestation.
Physical Characteristics of Adult Fleas
Adult fleas are small, typically measuring about 1/16 to 1/8 inch (1.5 to 3.2 mm) in length, visible but challenging to spot. Their color ranges from reddish-brown to black, often appearing darker after a recent blood meal. They possess a hard, shiny exoskeleton.
A distinctive feature of adult fleas is their laterally flattened body, meaning they are thin from side to side. This body shape allows them to move quickly and easily through the fur or hair of a host. They have six powerful legs, with the hind pair being noticeably larger and adapted for jumping. While they lack wings, they have specialized mouthparts designed for piercing skin and feeding on blood. Their short antennae are often hidden in grooves on their small heads.
How Adult Fleas Behave
Adult fleas have a powerful jumping ability. They can propel themselves up to 7-8 inches high and 13 inches across. This allows them to quickly transfer from the environment onto a passing host. They typically jump when seeking a new host or when disturbed.
Once on a host, fleas move quickly and erratically through fur or hair, making them difficult to catch. Their flattened bodies and backward-pointing bristles help them navigate and stay securely attached within the host’s coat. Adult fleas feed exclusively on blood, taking multiple meals throughout their lifespan. They typically remain on a host once they have found one, rarely leaving voluntarily unless the host dies or grooming dislodges them.
Where to Find Adult Fleas
Adult fleas are primarily found on warm-blooded hosts, especially pets like dogs and cats. They often congregate in areas such as the neck, base of the tail, and belly of these animals. Their presence on pets can often be detected by observing excessive scratching or biting from the animal.
Within homes, adult fleas can be found in areas where pets spend a lot of time. Common indoor locations include carpets, rugs, pet bedding, and upholstered furniture. These environments provide suitable conditions for fleas, particularly warm and humid areas. Outdoors, fleas prefer moist, shady areas, such as under bushes, in tall grass, leaf piles, or in wooded areas where pets or wildlife frequently roam. They avoid direct sunlight and drier conditions.