How Fast Do Fleas Reproduce?
WouterFleas reproduce in a number of ways. The first way is through eggs. Female fleas lay eggs every day, and about 75 percent of the eggs are non-viable. These eggs are either consumed by the host, or cannibalized by two other fleas. The next step in the flea life cycle is to hatch the eggs into larvae. After hatching, these larvae feed on organic debris.
Flea eggs hatch into tiny larvae about an eighth of an inch long. They do not have wings, and are legless and blind. These larvae wiggle into animal bedding. Their diet is the blood of adult fleas, as well as organic debris. They also spin silken cocoons to camouflage themselves. This stage takes from five to 14 days. It’s important to remember that fleas can reproduce a lot slower than you might think.
Fleas reproduce by producing eggs in warm, moist environments. The average lifespan of an egg is about 12 days. The temperature should be 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a humidity level of between 50 and 80 percent. Some insecticides kill adult fleas but not their eggs, so be sure to check your home’s humidity level as well.
Female fleas can lay eggs on their host for four to nine days. Then they will drop the eggs on the ground. During this time, the eggs will hatch. The larvae will then begin feeding on organic wastes, flea feces, and shed skin cells. Depending on the environment, the adult flea will take between seven and ten days to develop. The larvae will also feed on organic debris and hair.
