Giant Armadillo Flea vs Hen Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Giant Armadillo Flea Hen Flea
Scientific Name Tunga caecata Ceratophyllus gallinae
Order Siphonaptera Siphonaptera
Family Tungidae Ceratophyllidae
Size 1-2 mm 2-3 mm
Habitat Underground Woodlands
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions South America Europe, Asia, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Giant Armadillo Flea

A burrowing flea related to the chigoe flea that parasitizes armadillos in South America. Like its relative, the gravid female embeds into the host's skin.

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Did You Know?

It is one of only a few flea species in the world that burrows into its host's skin to feed and reproduce.

Hen Flea

A common flea of wild birds and domestic poultry, often found in nest material. Heavy infestations can cause anemia and reduced egg production in chickens.

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Did You Know?

Hen fleas spend most of their lives in the nest rather than on the bird, making nest sanitation the most effective control method.