Fleas

There are numerous species of fleas, occurring in various parts of the world. Although most species of fleas are specific to particular host animals for breeding, they are less specific in their feeding and may use various species of birds or mammals for this purpose.

The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) can be quite abundant during the hotter months of summer, as can the dog flea (C. canis), when their populations may build up in homes with pet animals. These fleas will also avidly feed on humans, biting especially commonly around the feet and ankles.

The human flea (Pulex irritans) is an important pest of worldwide distribution that can be quite common in human habitations, especially in tropical and sub-tropical countries. The oriental rat flea (Xenopsylla cheopis) is an especially important species, because it is the vector by which the deadly bubonic plague can be spread to humans.