General
The Bird Flea is small, around 2mm long reddish brown in colour and is flattened
laterally. Distinctive features are the large jumping legs and the row of
at least 24 black non-sensory spines on the rear of the first thoracic segment. Also
apparent are the eyes the antennae and the mouthparts, adapted for piercing
and sucking which can be seen projecting downwards from the head.
Significance Birds are the preferred hosts but the Bird Flea is capable of feeding
on humans but is unable to complete development on human blood alone.
It is the common flea of poultry, being found in intensive farming
and free range flocks.
Control
Find the source of infestation, eliminate it and apply a residual
insecticide. Carbamate insecticides are particularly effective. If
domesticated fowl are to be treated, this should be carried out by
the veterinarian or owner of the animals.
