Bird Fleas are a common but often overlooked pest that can become a serious nuisance when bird nests are present on or near buildings. Scientifically known as Ceratophyllus gallinae, Bird Fleas are most commonly associated with poultry environments such as hen houses and aviaries, but they can also affect residential properties across Canberra when birds nest in roof voids, eaves, or wall cavities. Effective Bird Flea control focuses on correct identification, nest management, and professional treatment to prevent ongoing infestation.

ACT Pest Control provides reliable Bird Flea Control Canberra residents and property managers can depend on. Our services are designed to eliminate flea activity safely and reduce the risk of reinfestation once birds have moved on.

Appearance of Bird Fleas

Adult Bird Fleas are generally brownish in colour and range in size from approximately 1/32 inch to 5/16 inch long. Although small, they are visible to the naked eye, particularly when present in large numbers.

Bird Fleas have prominent eyes and antennae, and their mouthparts project downward from the head. These mouthparts are specially adapted for piercing skin and sucking blood, allowing the flea to feed efficiently on birds and, when necessary, other hosts.

Ceratophyllus gallinae, commonly known as the hen flea, is the most widespread and commonly encountered Bird Flea species. Accurate identification is essential for effective Bird Flea Pest Control, as treatment strategies differ from those used for pet fleas.

Life cycle of Bird Fleas

The life cycle of Bird Fleas is closely linked to the nesting behaviour of birds. Bird Fleas can only survive for short periods indoors and rely almost entirely on bird nests for breeding and development.

Breeding occurs primarily during the nesting period, when adult birds and their young are present and available for regular blood meals. Eggs are laid within the nest material, where larvae develop in close proximity to the host.

When conditions are suitable, pupae mature and emerge as adult fleas, continuing the breeding cycle. Because this process is tied to bird activity, infestations often peak during warmer months when nesting is most active.

Habits and behaviour

Adult Bird Fleas live within bird nests, feeding on the blood of birds and their chicks. When birds vacate the nest, adult fleas must quickly locate a new host to survive.

If a nest is reused, dormant pupae may hatch, mate, and re-establish the infestation. This can lead to recurring flea problems if nests are not properly removed and treated.

When bird nests are located in roof spaces, wall cavities, or eaves, Bird Fleas may migrate into living areas in search of a host. This often occurs after birds have left the nest, leading to sudden flea activity indoors.

Bird Fleas and human exposure

Although Bird Fleas prefer avian hosts, they will bite humans when birds are no longer available. These bites can cause irritation, itching, and discomfort, particularly when flea numbers are high.

Unlike pet fleas, Bird Fleas do not establish long-term infestations on humans or indoor environments. However, repeated bites can occur until the source nest and flea population are eliminated.

Professional Bird Flea Control Canberra services are essential to address both the flea activity and the underlying nesting issue.

Common locations for Bird Flea infestations

Bird Flea infestations are most commonly associated with:

• Roof voids and ceiling spaces
• Eaves and wall cavities
• Sheds, garages, and outbuildings
• Hen houses, aviaries, and bird enclosures

Properties with frequent bird activity or nesting opportunities are at greater risk. Regular inspection of these areas helps reduce the likelihood of infestation.

Why Bird Flea infestations persist

Bird Flea infestations often persist when nests are left untreated or removed without proper pest control measures. Simply removing a nest does not eliminate eggs, larvae, or pupae that may remain behind.

DIY treatments rarely address all life stages of the flea, allowing populations to re-emerge. Effective Bird Flea Pest Control requires targeted treatment of affected areas after nests have been safely removed.

Our approach to Bird Flea control

ACT Pest Control provides professional Bird Flea Control Canberra property owners trust through a structured and thorough approach. We begin by identifying flea activity and locating nesting sites.

Once bird access has been addressed, targeted treatments are applied to eliminate fleas and disrupt the breeding cycle. Our treatments are selected to be effective while minimising risk to occupants and pets.

Where required, we also provide advice on preventing future nesting and reducing conditions that attract birds to structures.

Preventing future Bird Flea activity

Preventative measures play a key role in long-term Bird Flea Pest Control. These may include sealing entry points, installing deterrents, and maintaining roof and eave areas to discourage nesting.

Our technicians provide tailored advice specific to Canberra properties to help reduce reinfestation risk and maintain a flea-free environment.

When to seek professional Bird Flea control

If you notice flea activity following bird nesting, or experience unexplained bites after birds have left a nest, professional Bird Flea Control Canberra services are recommended. Early intervention prevents ongoing discomfort and repeat infestations.

ACT Pest Control services Canberra and surrounding suburbs, providing dependable Bird Flea Pest Control for residential and commercial properties.

Contact ACT Pest Control

If you are dealing with Bird Fleas on your property, ACT Pest Control is ready to help. We provide professional inspections and effective Bird Flea Control Canberra residents trust for reliable results.

📞 Call 1300 022 122
📧 Email: info@actpestcontrol.com.au