Western Chicken Flea vs Mole Flea
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Western Chicken Flea | Mole Flea |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ceratophyllus niger | Hystrichopsylla talpae |
| Order | Siphonaptera | Siphonaptera |
| Family | Ceratophyllidae | Hystrichopsyllidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 4-6 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Caves |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Western North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Western Chicken Flea
A poultry flea common in western North America that infests chickens and other domestic birds. Heavy infestations reduce egg production and can kill young chicks.
Did You Know?
Larvae develop in accumulated nest debris and droppings in poultry houses rather than on the bird itself.
Mole Flea
The largest European flea, found on moles and other burrowing mammals.
Did You Know?
At six millimeters it is easily visible to the naked eye unlike most flea species.