When a small, dark insect resembling a flea suddenly appears and takes flight, it can cause confusion. While the immediate thought might be a common household pest, the ability to fly distinguishes it from true fleas. This often points to a different insect, commonly found outdoors, that shares some superficial similarities with fleas but possesses wings.
Identifying the Common Culprit
The insect most commonly fitting the description of a “flea that flies” is the flea beetle. These small beetles measure between 1/16 to 1/4 inch in length, though some species can be larger. Their bodies are dark, shiny, and may exhibit metallic colors like black, bronze, bluish, or greenish-black. Some species also feature distinctive stripes or spots on their wing covers.
Their enlarged hind legs allow them to jump considerable distances when disturbed, much like a flea. Unlike true fleas, flea beetles possess functional wings and can fly. They are found in gardens and agricultural fields, feeding on various plants. Most species overwinter as adults in protected locations like leaf litter or weedy areas, becoming active in early to mid-spring.
Distinguishing Features from Other Small Insects
Flea beetles can be differentiated from other small insects, including true fleas, gnats, and fruit flies, by key features. True fleas are wingless, parasitic insects that feed on mammal blood, causing itching and discomfort. Flea beetles are plant-feeding insects and do not bite animals or humans. Their presence is noted by plant damage, not bites on skin.
Gnats are small flying insects with more delicate bodies and longer legs than flea beetles. They are typically attracted to decaying organic matter, standing water, or moist soil; some species may bite. Flea beetles, with their robust bodies and characteristic jumping ability, are associated with plant foliage. Fruit flies are often tan or brownish with red eyes and a hovering flight pattern, differing visually and behaviorally from flea beetles.
Understanding and Managing Their Presence
Flea beetles impact plants, with adults causing feeding damage. They chew small, irregular holes in leaves, often called “shot holes.” This damage can stunt plant growth, reduce yields, or kill young seedlings, making leafy crops unmarketable. Beyond feeding, some species can transmit plant diseases like bacterial wilt or potato blight.
Flea beetles are active during warm, dry, sunny conditions, emerging in early spring. Non-chemical management strategies include maintaining garden hygiene, using physical barriers like row covers, and planting trap or repellent crops. Encouraging beneficial insects, applying beneficial nematodes, adjusting planting times, or ensuring well-nourished plants for rapid growth can also help. Diatomaceous earth applied to plant foliage can deter these pests.