Why do fleas appear in summer? - briefly
Fleas proliferate when temperatures rise above 15 °C and humidity increases, conditions typical of the summer months. These environmental factors accelerate their life cycle and boost egg‑laying rates.
Why do fleas appear in summer? - in detail
Fleas proliferate when conditions favor rapid development and survival of all life stages. Warm temperatures accelerate metabolism, shortening the egg‑to‑adult cycle from several weeks to just a few days. High humidity prevents desiccation of eggs and larvae, which are especially vulnerable to drying out. The combination of heat and moisture creates an optimal environment for breeding.
Domestic animals and wildlife are more active outdoors in the summer, increasing the chances that adult fleas encounter a host. Blood meals are required for female reproduction; frequent feeding on readily available hosts boosts egg production. Additionally, the growth of organic debris such as leaf litter and pet bedding provides abundant food for larvae, which feed on skin flakes, blood residues, and fungal spores.
Key factors driving the seasonal surge include:
- Temperature above 20 °C (68 °F) that speeds development.
- Relative humidity around 70 % that maintains egg and larval viability.
- Increased host activity and accessibility.
- Abundant organic material offering nourishment for immature stages.
These elements interact to raise flea numbers during the warm months, leading to noticeable infestations. Control measures must target each stage of the life cycle and consider environmental conditions to be effective.