Hen Flea vs Oriental Rat Flea
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Hen Flea | Oriental Rat Flea |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ceratophyllus gallinae | Xenopsylla cheopis |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Ceratophyllidae | Pulicidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 1.5-2.5 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America | Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide |
| 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.
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.
Oriental Rat Flea
The primary vector of bubonic plague, responsible for transmitting the bacterium Yersinia pestis between rats and humans. It is a small, dark brown flea found on rodents.
Did You Know?
This flea species was responsible for transmitting the Black Death, which killed an estimated one-third of Europe's population.