Pigeon Flea vs Human Flea
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Pigeon Flea | Human Flea |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ceratophyllus columbae | Pulex irritans |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Ceratophyllidae | Pulicidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 1.5-4 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America | Worldwide |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Pigeon Flea
A flea found in pigeon nests and dovecotes that can bite humans in infested buildings. It thrives in the accumulated droppings and debris of pigeon roosts.
Did You Know?
Urban pest controllers frequently encounter it when clearing pigeon infestations from building interiors.
Human Flea
Once common in human homes, now relatively rare in developed countries. Historically responsible for transmitting bubonic plague. Can jump 33 cm vertically.
Did You Know?
Human fleas were major plague vectors — the Black Death that killed 75-200 million people in the 14th century was largely spread by fleas on rats entering human homes.