Fleas are small, brown, parasitic insects that live and feed on blood from host animals such as dogs, cats, birds, and even pigs. They can be found both indoors and outdoors, and multiply quickly in warm, humid conditions.
Types of Fleas
Most fleas are small (1.5 – 4mm long), brown in colour, have a laterally flattened body and strong hindlegs for jumping. Across Australia, there are approximately 90 known species of fleas, however only a few common species are considered pests in urban areas. Throughout Joondalup and the northern suburbs of Perth, most flea problems are caused by:
- Cat Fleas
- Dog Fleas
Problems caused by Fleas
For most people, flea bites are the first indication they have an infestation of fleas. When living conditions favour flea growth and development, flea populations can multiply to plague proportions in as little as a week or two. When a flea infestation occurs, bites around the ankles and lower legs are common, with individual reactions ranging from mild to severe. Although uncommon, flea bites have also been known to transmit diseases such as the plague, murine typhus and tapeworm parasites.
If you have concerns about fleas, please call WA Pestsaway Joondalup on 0419 374 374
