Flea

Natural Habitat

Found on the skin or within the fur of host mammals and birds, as well as in bedding, carpets, and cracks of infested homes.

Diet & Feeding

Blood of mammals and birds; larvae typically feed on organic debris and 'flea dirt' (adult flea excrement containing undigested blood).

Behavior Patterns

Adults are wingless, saltatorial (jumping) parasites. They use piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on hosts and undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Risks include skin irritation, allergic dermatitis, and transmission of pathogens such as tapeworms and plague. They offer no significant ecological benefits to humans or pets.

Identified on: 6/1/2026