Where are fleas found in winter? - briefly
Fleas survive the cold by residing in protected sites such as pet bedding, carpets, floor cracks, and animal nests, where they remain as eggs, larvae, or pupae. They emerge when indoor temperatures rise in early spring.
Where are fleas found in winter? - in detail
Fleas remain active throughout the cold months by seeking insulated environments where temperature and humidity stay within their survival range. The primary locations include:
- Pet bedding and grooming areas: fur, collars, and the fabric of dog or cat beds retain heat, providing a refuge for adult fleas and developing stages.
- Household carpets and rugs: woven fibers trap organic debris and maintain moisture, allowing eggs and larvae to develop unnoticed.
- Cracks and crevices in flooring or baseboards: these micro‑habitats protect immature stages from temperature fluctuations and facilitate movement between rooms.
- Upholstered furniture: cushions and seams create warm pockets that support the full flea life cycle.
- Heated storage spaces: garages, sheds, or crawl spaces with supplemental heating or direct sunlight can sustain populations when outdoor conditions are hostile.
Flea development proceeds faster in warmer, humid settings; therefore, indoor micro‑climates that mimic spring conditions enable eggs to hatch within 2–5 days, larvae to feed on organic matter for 1–2 weeks, and pupae to remain dormant until a host stimulates emergence. Adult fleas typically wait on the host or in the surrounding environment, ready to jump onto a passing animal or human.
Control measures during winter focus on eliminating these sheltered sites: wash pet bedding at high temperatures, vacuum carpets and upholstery regularly, seal gaps in flooring, and treat indoor environments with approved insecticides or growth regulators. Maintaining low indoor humidity (below 50 %) and a consistent temperature below 70 °F (21 °C) reduces the suitability of these habitats, limiting flea survival throughout the season.