Your yard can get a flea infestation, especially in the areas your pet loves visiting. But it could be challenging to figure out if and when there are fleas present in the yard. Pets, wild animals, and other pests like rats can infest the yard space with fleas.
So for example, if your pet keeps scratching themselves or is restless, they could have fleas that they might have acquired from the yard.
Here are some signs that indicate there could be a flea infestation in your yard. Keep reading to find out more!
Can Fleas Live In Your Yard And What Attracts Them There?
Fleas are parasites that are fully capable of surviving outside. They can thrive in the yard as they are attracted by the pets who love playing there. They would be looking for new hosts, and the animal’s fur is ideal for the fleas to take a ride on.
These insects may be also attracted to the wood and debris laying around in your lawn as it is a great breeding ground for them. Wood piles that are improperly stacked in the backyard can draw fleas as they create clutter that attracts them. Thus, it is wise to keep your lawn tidy and free from debris that might host fleas.
In addition, overwatering the lawn might attract the fleas as they thrive in a moist environment. The grass at the bottom might not be exposed to the sun, thus becoming a perfect breeding ground for fleas.
How Did Fleas Get In Your Yard?
Mostly the fleas in Athens could infest your garden because of the wildlife spreading them. If wild animals such as raccoons, porcupines, rats, and mice access your yard, they might bring the fleas and leave the eggs or mature insects on the grass.
Also, if your neighbor’s backyard has grass infested with fleas, these pests might climb over in search of new hosts. If your pet gets the fleas when they go out for a walk, they might also leave flea eggs in the house and yard.
Do Fleas Live In Grass, Dirt, Or Garden Soil?
The fleas live in the grass, especially in the lower areas that are close to the soil and not exposed to the sun. The flea eggs can get attached to the grass at the bottom and hatch into mature fleas.
Fleas love moisture and could do well in the garden soil that’s moist and warm as they wait for a new host. If the grass, dirt, and soil are located in the shade, these areas could harbor fleas as they fear too much sunlight. Thus, it is wise to let the sun into every corner of the yard to keep fleas at bay.
Where Do Fleas Like To Hide In The Yard?
When outdoors, these insects prefer to live in the shade rather than in the sun. Thus, the fleas will hide and can be commonly found in dark areas of the yard which are not lit by the sunlight as they thrive in darkness.
Also, if you don’t mow your grass often and it becomes too long, the lawn would host fleas as they could lay their eggs at the base of the grass leading to more infestation. The ideal grass height could also attract spiders and ants that prey on the fleas, which as a result can reduce the infestation.
Again, as already mentioned, fleas would hide in the warm and moist grass, soil, and dirt as they do well in a warm and moist environment, and they could also hide in the yard clutter that doesn’t have access to the sun.
If you are still not sure where to look for fleas in the yard, you can wear white long socks and walk around the yard, alternatively, hang white socks above the grass, especially in places where your pet loves to visit. The fleas will jump onto the white socks, thinking this is a new host. This way you will easily spot the fleas as they become visible on the white socks.
What Time Are Fleas Most Active?
During the day, fleas avoid the sun so they are most active at sunset and least active at sunrise. At dusk, the pests would lay more eggs, respire more, and move around in the yard more.
Although the fleas are not completely inactive at any time of the day, they have increased activity at dusk and night. However, they could still produce feces and eggs throughout the day but not as much as they do at night.
How Long Can Fleas Survive In Grass?
Fleas can live in the grass without a host and undisturbed for about two to three months, depending on the condition of your yard. However, the female fleas might not lay eggs without a host, but after finding a host, they could lay many eggs within 48 hours.
It is hard to get rid fleas around your Athens home because they can survive for such a long time in the yard and house, and the few you see on your pet could be the tip of the iceberg. Thus, a long-term and simultaneous flea elimination strategy may be necessary.
Fleas are not only irritating but are also a source of diseases, so if you suspect a flea infestation, it’s best to involve a professional flea exterminator to eliminate the problem in your yard.
Contact the Athens, GA, pest control professionals from American Pest Control. We are highly trained to deal with flea infestations. They can identify the source of the infestation, eradicate the fleas, and advise you on how to avoid such infestations in the future. They will use also products that are safe for humans and pets.
Our certified pest experts will work with you to find the best solution for your needs. Simply fill out this form for a free, no-obligation estimate.
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