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What are sand fleas?
- By Emma
-
- July 23, 2026
- 1 MIN READ
Sand fleas are tiny crustaceans that live on beaches and along coastal areas. And even though they have 'fleas' in their name, they aren't like normal fleas we know. The name "sand flea" usually refers to small beach hoppers, also known as sand hoppers, in the UK.
Where do sand fleas live?
Sand fleas hide beneath seaweed, damp sand and driftwood during the day before becoming more active at night.
Are sand fleas harmful to dogs?
Unlike cat and dog fleas, sand fleas do not live on pets. They feed on decaying seaweed, algae and other organic material, helping to recycle nutrients within beach ecosystems. If disturbed, they use their powerful hind legs to leap impressive distances, which is why they are often mistaken for fleas.
Can sand fleas infest humans?
Similarly to your pet, sand fleas aren't interested in humans. They might bite but they won't stick around and certainly won't infest your home.
Sand fleas in my home
In tropical and subtropical regions (not in the UK), the term "sand flea" can also refer to the chigoe flea (Tunga penetrans), which are fleas that can burrow into the skin of humans and animals, causing irritation and requiring medical treatment. This type of flea can infest your home.
Why is my dog itching at the beach?
If your dog or cat develops itching after a trip to the beach, it's much more likely to be caused by common fleas, rather than sand fleas. Itch Flea Treatment for Dogs and Itch Flea Treatment for Cats kills all adult fleas on your pet 24 hours and stops the development of flea eggs and larvae to put a halt to a flea infestation. Itch Flea is a vet approved flea treatment, scientifically proven to work and licensed by the VMD as a safe and effective treatment against ticks and lice, as well as fleas.
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