What are fleas on birds called? - briefly
These ectoparasites are known as bird fleas, members of the family Ceratophyllidae such as the pigeon flea (Ceratophyllus columbae). They feed on avian blood and are adapted to cling to feathers.
What are fleas on birds called? - in detail
Bird‑associated fleas belong to the family Ceratophyllidae and are generally termed “avian fleas.” The most frequently encountered species is Ceratophyllus gallinae, commonly called the chicken flea or poultry flea. Other species that infest wild birds include Ceratophyllus niger (black flea) and Ceratophyllus borealis (northern flea).
These insects are ectoparasites that spend most of their life cycle on the host’s plumage. Adult females lay eggs on the bird’s feathers; the eggs drop to the nest material where larvae develop, feeding on organic debris and adult flea excrement. Pupation occurs in the nest, and the emerging adult seeks a host for a blood meal. The entire cycle can be completed in 2–3 weeks under favorable temperature and humidity.
Infestation signs are visible as small, dark, jumping insects moving through the plumage, as well as feather damage, skin irritation, and blood spots on nests. Heavy loads can cause anemia, reduced breeding success, and increased susceptibility to secondary infections.
Control measures focus on breaking the life cycle:
- Remove and disinfect nesting material after the breeding season.
- Apply diatomaceous earth or fine‑mesh screens in nest boxes.
- Treat captive birds with approved ectoparasitic sprays or powders, following veterinary guidelines.
- Maintain low humidity in poultry housing to inhibit larval development.
Monitoring protocols include regular visual inspections of plumage, use of sticky traps near nest entrances, and occasional sampling of nest debris for larvae or pupae. Accurate identification of the flea species guides appropriate treatment, as some avian fleas are more tolerant of chemical controls than others.