Fleas are opportunistic pests that can survive in any weather, even very cold temperatures. While fleas cannot live for too long in frigid temperatures, they will certainly find warm-bodied hosts like our pets, or shelter like our home to survive year-round. Fleas don’t hibernate either, not like most true hibernators anyway. Pre-emerged fleas will die if temperatures reach below 37.4 degrees Fahrenheit. The adult fleas will find warm insulated areas to avoid dying and the flea larvae will emerge in the spring when the weather is ideal.
Lifecycle of a Flea
Adult females can live for several weeks if they find a host like your pet. She will feed on your pet two to three times a day as she continues to lay eggs. During her life, she can lay up to several hundred eggs. The infestation starts as these eggs fall off the host into you carpets, bedding, the yard and anywhere your pet frequents. These eggs will continue to develop and can do so anywhere, like crevices in carpets and small cracks on the floor. When the larvae hatch, they will live on organic matter, skin flakes and adult flea feces. The larvae will molt twice and form a cocoon. This cocoon provides a lot of protection and they will wait for long lengths of time for ideal conditions to hatch. After hatching, they will seek after heat, vibrations and exhaled carbon dioxide which usually leads them to a host like your pet. If the best conditions are present a flea can finish its whole life cycle in about 14 days!
Killing Fleas
Fleas are hard to find and get rid of. Having a flea infestation in your home means that 5% are adult fleas. The bigger problem is the rest of the population that consists of 50% eggs, 30% larvae and 15% pupae. Flea control needs to happen throughout the year and winter can be the ideal time to start the fight against fleas. Winter is when they are at their lowest numbers and the least active. Start by vacuuming any areas that your pet spends time and throw bedding in the wash with the hottest water safe for the material. If you’re experiencing a mild winter or have you trees, shrubs and plant year-round, you need to make your yard less desirable to pests by picking up debris, piles of wood and keep your yard trimmed. Fleas like these areas because they have a slightly higher humidity level as well as protection from the sun. If you pet is absent of fleas it doesn’t mean you don’t have a problem your pet is merely a meal ticket to lay their eggs or get a ride. Your pets should be protected from fleas all year-round. Skipping treatments in the colder months can lead to a flea infestation starting on your pet and into your home. Speak with your veterinarian as to which methods are best suited for your pet.
Flea Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
Flea infestations include all parts of their lifecycle, so it’s an ongoing battle. Get the upper hand in the winter when development is slowed to break the cycle. Dedicated cleaning and the right flea control can help you win the fight against fleas. Call A-Tex Pest Management today!
