Rabbit Flea vs Human Head Louse

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Rabbit Flea Human Head Louse
Scientific Name Spilopsyllus cuniculi Pediculus humanus capitis
Order Siphonaptera Phthiraptera
Family Pulicidae Pediculidae
Size 1.5-2 mm 2-3 mm
Habitat Grasslands Underground
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Europe Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Rabbit Flea

A flea specific to European rabbits with a remarkable reproductive strategy tied to its host. It can transmit myxomatosis between rabbits.

💡

Did You Know?

Rabbit flea reproduction is controlled by rabbit hormones — the flea can only breed when feeding on a pregnant doe near the time of birth.

Human Head Louse

An obligate ectoparasite of the human scalp that feeds on blood several times per day. It spreads through direct head-to-head contact.

💡

Did You Know?

Head lice have co-evolved with humans for millions of years, and DNA analysis of lice has helped trace ancient human migration patterns.