Northern Rat Flea vs Mole Flea
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Northern Rat Flea | Mole Flea |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nosopsyllus fasciatus | Hystrichopsylla talpae |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Ceratophyllidae | Hystrichopsyllidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Caves |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Northern Rat Flea
A flea of the Norway rat found in temperate climates, capable of transmitting murine typhus. It has a distinctive pronotal comb of spines.
Did You Know?
This flea thrives in the cool conditions of sewers and basements, making it a persistent pest in urban rat populations.
Mole Flea
The largest European flea, found on moles and other burrowing mammals.
Did You Know?
At six millimeters it is easily visible to the naked eye unlike most flea species.