OTHER BLOOD FEEDERS

FLEAS

Fleas are a well-known problem of homeowner with pets especially from July through October. There are over 2,000 species of fleas worldwide, however the most common flea encountered in and around homes is the cat flea. The dog flea, while very similar to the cat flea, is not as commonly encountered. Most dogs infested with fleas have cat fleas.

Domestic pets as well as rats, mice, squirrels, raccoons and chipmunks could carry fleas into your home. Normally, with regular blood meals available, the female flea can lay 15 to 20 eggs per day on the host. Eggs are loosely deposited in the hosts’ skin or fur and usually drops out where the host sleeps and frequents (bedding, rugs, carpeting, upholstered furniture, lawns, etc.). Eggs hatch in approximately 2 to 14 days.

Centipedes have elongated, flattened and many-segmented bodies with 1 pair of long legs which are alternately colored with light and dark bands. Most species of centipedes live outdoors, however the house centipede is the only species that can live and reproduce in homes. House centipedes have a hairier appearance than centipedes found outdoors. They are often found in areas where humidity is high such as, in basements, storage areas, laundry rooms, garages and bathrooms. The house centipede is active at night, moving about in search of cockroaches, spiders, flies and other household pests as food. During the day they commonly hide in cracks and crevices or other secluded areas.

CENTIPEDES

Centipedes have elongated, flattened and many-segmented bodies with 1 pair of long legs which are alternately colored with light and dark bands. Most species of centipedes live outdoors, however the house centipede is the only species that can live and reproduce in homes. House centipedes have a hairier appearance than centipedes found outdoors. They are often found in areas where humidity is high such as, in basements, storage areas, laundry rooms, garages and bathrooms. The house centipede is active at night, moving about in search of cockroaches, spiders, flies and other household pests as food. During the day they commonly hide in cracks and crevices or other secluded areas.