About Badger Flea
A large flea specialized to parasitize European badgers. It is found in badger setts and is one of the largest flea species in Europe.
Did You Know?
It is one of the largest fleas in the world and its size corresponds to the thick skin of its badger host.
How to Identify Badger Flea
Badger Flea (Paraceras melis) belongs to the order Siphonaptera, family Ceratophyllidae. Adults typically measure 3-5 mm.
Badger Flea Habitat
Badger Flea is found in underground habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Badger Flea Diet and Feeding
Badger Flea is a blood-feeding species that obtains nutrients by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals. Blood feeders have specialised mouthparts adapted for piercing skin.
Where Is Badger Flea Found?
Badger Flea can be found in Europe, where it inhabits underground environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Badger Flea can be found
Is Badger Flea Dangerous?
Badger Flea is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals to obtain a blood meal. Bites can cause irritation, itching, and in some cases allergic reactions. Some blood-feeding insects are known to transmit diseases, so precautions should be taken to avoid bites.
Badger Flea Role in Nature
Badger Flea plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Badger Flea are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Badger Flea
What does Badger Flea look like?
The Badger Flea typically measures 3-5 mm.
Where is Badger Flea found?
The Badger Flea is found in Europe and typically inhabits underground environments.
What does Badger Flea eat?
The Badger Flea feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.
Is Badger Flea dangerous to humans?
The Badger Flea is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals. Some blood feeders can transmit diseases. Take precautions to avoid bites.
What is an interesting fact about Badger Flea?
It is one of the largest fleas in the world and its size corresponds to the thick skin of its badger host.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Badger Flea (Paraceras melis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/badger-flea
MLA:
"Badger Flea." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/badger-flea.