Squirrel Flea vs Snow Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Squirrel Flea Snow Flea
Scientific Name Orchopeas howardi Glaciopsyllus antarcticus
Order Siphonaptera Siphonaptera
Family Ceratophyllidae Ceratophyllidae
Size 2-3 mm 2-3 mm
Habitat Woodlands Tundra & Arctic
Diet Parasites Blood Feeders
Regions North America Oceania
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.

💡

Did You Know?

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

Snow Flea

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

💡

Did You Know?

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