Wildlife:
* Rodents: Rats, mice, and squirrels are notorious flea hosts.
* Wild animals: Birds, rabbits, raccoons, and other wildlife can carry fleas.
* Opossums: While not as common, opossums can carry fleas and even help control them by consuming them.
Human Environments:
* Other People: Fleas can hitchhike on people, especially if they've been in contact with animals.
* Used furniture: Fleas can hide in used furniture, especially couches, beds, and carpets.
* Yard: Fleas can live in yards, especially if there are areas of tall grass or dense vegetation.
* Dust and Debris: Flea eggs and larvae can survive in dust and debris, making it important to clean regularly.
* Travel: Bringing in luggage or items from areas with high flea populations can introduce fleas to your home.
Other Sources:
* Bird nests: Birds can carry fleas and nests can be infested.
* Gardens: Fleas can live in gardens, especially those with a lot of ground cover.
How Fleas Get Inside:
Fleas can enter your home through a variety of ways, including:
* Through windows and doors: They can hop in through open doors or windows.
* On your clothing or shoes: They can hitch a ride on you from outside.
* On pets: Even if your pets are treated for fleas, they can still pick up fleas from other animals.
Preventing Fleas:
* Regular cleaning: Vacuum frequently, especially in high-traffic areas.
* Yard maintenance: Keep your yard tidy and free of overgrown vegetation.
* Pet care: Treat your pets regularly for fleas and ticks.
* Home pest control: Contact a professional pest control company to treat your home for fleas.
Remember, fleas are resilient and can survive for a long time without a host. If you suspect you have a flea problem, take immediate action to prevent an infestation.