How Big Are Fleas to the Human Eye?
WouterFleas are insects that live in the skin of warm-blooded animals. Although they do not have wings, they can bite humans and pets on various parts of the body. They also have six legs, with their hind legs being larger than their forelegs. This allows them to jump from one location to another. While they cannot jump as high as other insects, they can reach up to 16 inches.
Fleas are tiny, and are easily overlooked, especially if you do not have good eyesight. Fleas are usually reddish-brown or black in color and are about 1.5 millimeters long. While they are easily noticeable on white-furred pets, they can also be hard to notice when hidden in carpet fibers or in rugs.
Adult fleas are about 1.5mm to 4mm in length, with a flat, dark brown body covered in hard plates called sclerites. They are difficult to kill, but can be caught by squishing them between your fingers. When blood is available, the female flea will lay her eggs on the host. Fleas are true insects, and they are a nuisance for both people and animals. Their bodies are narrow and slender, allowing them to move through a host’s coat easily.
A flea infestation is a serious issue for any household, and should be treated as soon as possible. They can spread dangerous diseases if not treated right away. Fleas are best treated in their early stages, because they reproduce at high rates.
