Fleas

	Fleas can live for about 100 days. Fleas do not fly. They jump from one place to another. A pair of fleas can produce 400-500 offspring in their lifetime. A flea can jump up to 8 inches high. That is 150 times its own height. If you could do this, you'd be able to leap over even tall skyscrapers!
		Size: 1/12" to 1/6" Shape: Flat Color: Dark, reddish brown	Legs: 6 Wings: No Antenna: Yes
		Common Name: Flea Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Arthropoda	Class: Insecta Order: Siphonaptera Family: Pulicidae Species: Ctenocephalides fellis

DIET

Fleas are parasites that feed on blood.

HABITAT

Fleas can live on any warm-blooded animal, but seem to prefer to live on humans, cats, dogs, opossums, rats and other rodents. They can also be found on shoes, pant legs, or blankets.

IMPACT

Fleas are best known for spreading the Bubonic Plague. They also transmit the bacterial disease murine typhus to humans through infected rats. Their saliva is an allergen that can cause allergic reactions in pets and humans. Fleas can also transfer tapeworms and cause anemia in pets. Flea bites cause painful, itchy red bumps.

PREVENTION

• Clean and vacuum frequently.
• Keep your yard clean of garbage and pet droppings.
• Protect pets by keeping them on a leash when outside, give them lots of baths, give them monthly flea and tick treatments and take them to the vet at least once a year to make sure they haven’t been infested.
• If you think you have ticks in your home and property, call a pest management professional!