About Hedgehog Flea
A large flea specific to European hedgehogs and one of the most abundant fleas in Western Europe. A single hedgehog can harbor hundreds.
Did You Know?
Hedgehogs are so commonly infested that an average individual carries about 100 of these fleas.
How to Identify Hedgehog Flea
Hedgehog Flea (Archaeopsylla erinacei) belongs to the order Siphonaptera, family Pulicidae. Adults typically measure 2-3.5 mm.
Hedgehog Flea Habitat
Hedgehog Flea is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Europe, North Africa. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Hedgehog Flea Diet and Feeding
Hedgehog 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 Hedgehog Flea Found?
Hedgehog Flea can be found in Europe, North Africa, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Hedgehog Flea can be found
Is Hedgehog Flea Dangerous?
Hedgehog 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.
Hedgehog Flea Role in Nature
Hedgehog Flea plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Hedgehog 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 Hedgehog Flea
What does Hedgehog Flea look like?
The Hedgehog Flea typically measures 2-3.5 mm.
Where is Hedgehog Flea found?
The Hedgehog Flea is found in Europe, North Africa and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Hedgehog Flea eat?
The Hedgehog Flea feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.
Is Hedgehog Flea dangerous to humans?
The Hedgehog 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 Hedgehog Flea?
Hedgehogs are so commonly infested that an average individual carries about 100 of these fleas.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Hedgehog Flea (Archaeopsylla erinacei). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/hedgehog-flea
MLA:
"Hedgehog Flea." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/hedgehog-flea.