Snow Flea vs Mole Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Snow Flea Mole Flea
Scientific Name Glaciopsyllus antarcticus Hystrichopsylla talpae
Order Siphonaptera Siphonaptera
Family Ceratophyllidae Hystrichopsyllidae
Size 2-3 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Tundra & Arctic Caves
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Oceania Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Snow Flea

A flea that parasitizes petrels and survives Antarctic conditions year-round.

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Did You Know?

It is the southernmost known flea, enduring temperatures far below freezing.

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.