Hen Flea vs Badger Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Hen Flea Badger Flea
Scientific Name Ceratophyllus gallinae Paraceras melis
Order Siphonaptera Siphonaptera
Family Ceratophyllidae Ceratophyllidae
Size 2-3 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia, North America Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

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.

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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.