How long does a bird flea live? - briefly
Adult bird fleas typically live for two to three weeks, with lifespan extending to about a month under optimal temperature and host‑availability conditions.
How long does a bird flea live? - in detail
The lifespan of a bird flea (Ceratophyllus spp.) averages between two and four weeks under typical conditions. Development proceeds through four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Each phase is influenced by temperature, humidity, and host availability.
- Egg: Female fleas deposit 30‑50 eggs per day on the bird’s feathers or in the nest. Eggs hatch within 1‑5 days when ambient humidity exceeds 70 % and temperature stays between 20‑30 °C.
- Larva: Newly emerged larvae feed on organic debris, adult flea feces, and blood remnants. This stage lasts 5‑12 days, with growth accelerating at higher temperatures.
- Pupa: Larvae spin cocoons and enter a dormant pupal state. The pupal period can range from 5 days to several weeks, depending on environmental stability; favorable conditions shorten it to about a week.
- Adult: Upon emergence, adult fleas seek a blood meal from a bird host. Adults live up to 2‑3 weeks, during which females continuously lay eggs. Male fleas typically survive a shorter interval, often dying after mating.
Overall, the complete life cycle—from egg to the death of the adult—generally completes in 2‑3 weeks when conditions are optimal. In cooler or drier environments, development slows, extending the total duration to roughly one month. Control measures that reduce humidity, remove nests, and treat birds with appropriate acaricides can disrupt the cycle and shorten the flea’s survival window.