Sticktight Flea vs Mole Flea

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sticktight Flea Mole Flea
Scientific Name Echidnophaga gallinacea Hystrichopsylla talpae
Order Siphonaptera Siphonaptera
Family Pulicidae Hystrichopsyllidae
Size 1-2 mm 4-6 mm
Habitat Woodlands Caves
Diet Blood Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Sticktight Flea

A small flea that permanently attaches to the skin of poultry, often around the face and comb. It can also parasitize dogs, cats, and humans.

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Did You Know?

Unlike other fleas, the female embeds her mouthparts permanently into the host and never voluntarily detaches.

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.