Bird fleas

Ceratophyllus gallinae

Appearance:

Despite its small size of 1-8 mm, the flea is easily recognizable thanks to its striking eyes and antennae. The mouthparts are directed downwards to pierce the skin and suck blood.

Reproduction:

The flea can only survive indoors for a short time. It is mainly found in birds’ nests and feeds on the blood of nesting birds and their young.

Way of life:

Bird nests and barns are its preferred home. It only looks for a new host when the nest has been abandoned. The bird flea feels particularly at home in henhouses, battery cages and hatcheries and has plenty of host animals.