Badger Flea vs Rat Flea
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Badger Flea | Rat Flea |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Paraceras melis | Xenopsylla brasiliensis |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Ceratophyllidae | Pulicidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 1.5-2.5 mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Africa, South America, India |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Badger Flea
A large flea specialized to parasitize European badgers. It is found in badger setts and is one of the largest flea species in Europe.
Did You Know?
It is one of the largest fleas in the world and its size corresponds to the thick skin of its badger host.
Rat Flea
A tropical rat flea found across Africa and South America that can transmit plague. It is second to the oriental rat flea in importance as a plague vector.
Did You Know?
Despite its name suggesting Brazilian origin, it is most commonly found on rats throughout sub-Saharan Africa.