Mole Flea vs Pigeon Bug

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mole Flea Pigeon Bug
Scientific Name Hystrichopsylla talpae Cimex columbarius
Order Siphonaptera Hemiptera
Family Hystrichopsyllidae Cimicidae
Size 4-6 mm 4-5 mm
Habitat Caves Woodlands
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Mole Flea

The largest European flea, found on moles and other burrowing mammals.

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Did You Know?

At six millimeters it is easily visible to the naked eye unlike most flea species.

Pigeon Bug

A cimicid ectoparasite of pigeons and doves found in nest sites and dovecotes across Europe. It can bite humans in buildings with pigeon infestations.

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Did You Know?

Removing pigeon nests from buildings without treating for these bugs often drives them indoors to bite residents.