Squirrel Flea vs Ensign Wasp

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Squirrel Flea Ensign Wasp
Scientific Name Orchopeas howardi Evania appendigaster
Order Siphonaptera Hymenoptera
Family Ceratophyllidae Evaniidae
Size 2-3 mm 5-7 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Parasites Parasitoids
Regions North America Africa, Asia, North America, South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Squirrel Flea

A common ectoparasite of eastern gray squirrels and flying squirrels in North America. It is found in squirrel nests and tree cavities.

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Did You Know?

This flea can survive several months without feeding while waiting in an abandoned squirrel nest.

Ensign Wasp

A parasitoid wasp that targets cockroach egg cases and helps control pest populations.

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Did You Know?

It bobs its flag-like abdomen up and down as it walks, resembling a tiny flag bearer.