What do fleas look like on budgerigars? - briefly
Fleas on budgerigars are tiny (≈1–2 mm), dark‑brown, laterally flattened insects that move rapidly and may be seen as minute specks crawling on the bird’s skin or feather bases.
What do fleas look like on budgerigars? - in detail
Fleas that infest budgerigars are tiny, laterally flattened insects measuring 1–2 mm in length. Their bodies are dark brown to reddish‑black, with a shiny, almost metallic surface that reflects light. The head is small, equipped with elongated, comb‑like antennae and powerful hind legs adapted for jumping. Legs end in tiny claws that grip the bird’s feathers and skin.
Key visual cues include:
- Movement: rapid, erratic hops across the bird’s plumage, often visible when the bird preens.
- Location: concentration around the vent, under the wings, and at the base of the tail where feathers are thinner.
- Blood spots: tiny, dark specks on feathers or skin, representing flea feces (digested blood).
- Irritation signs: reddened skin or feather loss in areas of heavy infestation, indicating feeding sites.
When observed closely, the flea’s abdomen appears segmented, with a slightly rounded posterior. The thorax is narrower, giving the insect a distinctive hourglass silhouette. Under magnification, the mouthparts are visible as needle‑like structures used to pierce the bird’s skin and draw blood.