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Sticktight fleas
Sticktight fleas (scientific name Echidnophaga gallinacea) are a small, parasitic flea species commonly found on poultry and other animals. Unlike common fleas, these pests attach firmly to the skin, particularly around sensitive areas like chickens' combs, wattles, and eyes. Recognizing and controlling sticktight flea infestations is crucial to protecting poultry and other animals.
Sticktight flea identification
What do sticktight fleas look like?
Adult sticktight fleas are small, dark brown insects with flat bodies that allow them to attach closely to the host’s skin. Their powerful mouthparts are adapted to burrow into bare skin, particularly around sensitive areas. Unlike other fleas, sticktight fleas remain attached rather than hopping around. Female fleas are usually found firmly attached to the host’s skin, where they feed and lay eggs.
For more information on flea identification, see our article What do fleas look like?
Signs of a sticktight flea infestation
Sticktight flea infestations are often noticeable by clusters of fleas attached to the skin, particularly around the eyes, wattles, or combs of poultry. In addition to the visible signs of fleas, other indicators may include excessive scratching or restlessness in affected animals, red and irritated areas of bare skin where fleas have burrowed, and blood loss in more severe cases. As the infestation worsens, scabs and skin damage can develop around the areas where the fleas are attached. If you notice these signs of fleas, it’s important to take action promptly to prevent further complications.
Habitat, diet, life cycle and bites
Sticktight fleas are parasitic pests commonly found in poultry environments and warm climates. They feed on their host's blood, causing irritation and potential harm, while their life cycle thrives in organic debris like litter and bedding.
Where do sticktight fleas live?
Sticktight fleas are commonly found in poultry environments and areas with organic debris like litter and bedding. They thrive in warm, dry climates and can infest barns, coops, and any area where poultry or small mammals live. The fleas lay eggs in the surrounding organic material, and their larvae feed on the decomposing matter until they progress to the cocoon stage.
Diet
Adult sticktight fleas rely on the blood of their host to survive. They attach tightly to the skin and feed directly, often around bare skin areas, which can lead to significant blood loss in cases of heavy infestations.
Life cycle
The life cycle of sticktight fleas includes several stages: egg, larva, cocoon, and adult. Female fleas lay eggs in organic material, like poultry litter, where the larvae feed on decomposing matter. Once mature, the larvae form a cocoon and emerge as adult sticktight fleas. They then seek a host to attach to and feed on, completing the cycle.
Bites
Sticktight flea bites are painful and can lead to irritation, scabs, and infection. The mouthpart of the flea burrows into the skin, where it remains attached to feed. These bites are particularly harmful around sensitive areas like the wattle and comb of poultry.
Are sticktight fleas dangerous?
Sicktight fleas can pose a serious threat to their hosts. Heavy infestations can cause anemia due to blood loss and may lead to secondary infections from bite wounds. In poultry, the stress of an infestation can lead to reduced egg production and weakened immune systems. Sticktight fleas can also affect pets, and in rare cases, they may attach to humans, leading to painful bites.
How to get rid of sticktight fleas
Effective treatment to get rid of sticktight fleas requires addressing both the animals and their environment. Start by applying flea treatments containing permethrin, which can help eliminate adult fleas. Be sure that any product used is safe for poultry if necessary. Next, thoroughly clean the environment by removing organic debris and regularly disinfecting bedding and litter in poultry coops or pet areas. Using a flea comb can assist in getting rid of fleas from other infested animals, especially for smaller infestations. For more severe cases, consult a veterinarian to explore professional treatment options.
Sticktight flea prevention tips
Preventing sticktight fleas involves maintaining a clean environment and reducing exposure to flea habitats. Regularly clean coops, litter, and bedding to eliminate organic material where flea larvae can thrive. Consider using natural or approved insecticides around poultry housing to prevent re-infestation. Monitor animals, especially in warm climates, for early signs of flea activity, and avoid contact with animals or areas that may be infested.
Need help with sticktight flea control?
Dealing with a sticktight flea infestation can be overwhelming and challenging, especially when the fleas are difficult to remove. If you're struggling to manage the problem on your own, it’s best to contact a professional flea control service.
Our experts have access to more effective treatments and specialized knowledge to address infestations safely and efficiently. Whether it's applying the right topical treatments or thoroughly cleaning and treating your environment, professionals can guide you through the process and help ensure that your home and animals are safe from further issues.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for help.
Frequently asked questions
Can humans get sticktight fleas?
While sticktight fleas primarily target animals, they can occasionally attach to humans. These fleas burrow into the skin, causing painful bites that can lead to irritation and discomfort.
If you suspect that sticktight fleas have bitten you, it's important to seek medical advice, especially if the flea bites become infected or cause an allergic reaction or another flea-borne disease. Timely treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.
What are the symptoms of sticktight fleas?
In animals, sticktight flea infestations typically cause visible fleas attached to bare skin areas, irritation, scabs, and blood loss in severe cases. In humans, bites from sticktight fleas can result in red, itchy spots that may persist and cause discomfort.
Can dogs get sticktight fleas?
Yes, dogs can occasionally become infested with sticktight fleas, especially if they spend time in environments with poultry or other infested animals. It’s essential to check pets regularly and seek veterinary treatment if necessary.
Do sticktight fleas jump?
Unlike common fleas, sticktight fleas do not hop around once attached. They have adapted to remain attached to their host, where they feed continuously.
Where do sticktight fleas come from?
Sticktight fleas often originate in environments where poultry or other small animals reside. They lay their eggs in organic material, and once they reach the adult stage, they attach to an animal host.