Bug Identifier
Flea
Community identification

Flea

Siphonaptera (order)

Order & Family
Order Siphonaptera, commonly within the family Pulicidae
Size
1.5 to 3.3 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found globally in households with pets and in wild animal nesting areas

Diet & Feeding

External parasites that feed on the blood of birds and mammals

Behavior Patterns

Wingless insects with powerful legs for jumping; they undergo complete metamorphosis and are typically most active in warm, humid conditions

Risks & Benefits

Risks include being vectors for diseases like typhus and plague, and causing allergic dermatitis; they provide no significant benefits to human ecosystems