How long do fleas and their eggs live? - briefly
Flea eggs hatch within 1–2 days, the larvae develop for about 5–10 days before pupating, and adult fleas survive roughly 2–3 weeks under favorable conditions.
How long do fleas and their eggs live? - in detail
Fleas progress through four distinct stages, each with a specific time frame that depends on temperature, humidity, and host availability.
The initial stage consists of eggs laid by the adult female. Under optimal conditions—approximately 75 °F (24 °C) and 70 % relative humidity—eggs hatch within 24 to 48 hours. In cooler or drier environments, development may extend to three days.
Larvae emerge from the eggs and feed on organic debris, adult flea feces, and other small particles. This phase lasts between five and 11 days, with faster growth occurring at temperatures above 80 °F (27 °C). The larval period concludes when the insect spins a silken cocoon, entering the pupal stage.
Pupae remain enclosed in their cocoons for a variable period. In favorable conditions, adult emergence can occur after as little as two days. However, pupae can enter a dormant state, persisting for several weeks or even months until stimulated by vibrations, carbon dioxide, or heat from a potential host.
The adult flea emerges ready to seek a blood meal. After its first feed, a female can begin laying eggs within 24 to 36 hours. Adult longevity ranges from two to three weeks when feeding continuously, but can extend to several months if the flea remains in a sheltered environment without a host.
Typical time spans for each stage (optimal conditions):
- Egg: 1–2 days
- Larva: 5–11 days
- Pupa: 2 days to several weeks (dormancy possible)
- Adult: 14–21 days (up to several months without feeding)
These intervals illustrate the rapid turnover of flea populations and underscore the importance of environmental control in managing infestations.