Flea larva

Scientific Name: Ctenocephalides felis (most likely)

Order & Family: Order: Siphonaptera; Family: Pulicidae

Size: Approximately 1–5 mm in length depending on the instar stage.

Flea larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found in carpets, upholstery, pet bedding, and floor cracks in environments where a host (dog or cat) is present.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on organic debris and 'flea dirt' (dried adult flea excrement consisting of semi-digested blood).

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are photophobic (move away from light) and require high humidity; they go through three larval stages before spinning a cocoon to pupate.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include the development of adult flea infestations involving painful bites to humans and pets; they can also be intermediate hosts for tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum). They provide no ecological benefits in a domestic setting.

Identified on: 2/16/2026