What is a common environment for the eastern rat flea?

The eastern rat flea is commonly found in warm, humid conditions, which provide an ideal environment for its survival and reproduction. These fleas thrive in areas where there is sufficient moisture in the air and warmth that is conducive to their life cycle. Such environments help to maintain the level of humidity that is crucial for flea development, as they require moist conditions to survive at different stages, including both larvae and adults.

In contrast, cooler or dryer environments are not conducive to the flea's lifecycle, as they can lead to dehydration and mortality. While cave systems might seem like an environment where pests could reside, they typically lack the warmth and consistent humidity that the eastern rat flea needs. Similarly, deserts and arid regions provide dry conditions that do not support the flea's biological necessities for survival, making warm, humid conditions the most suitable habitat for this pest.