🦠 Fleas

Pigeon Flea

Ceratophyllus columbae

About Pigeon Flea

A flea found in pigeon nests and dovecotes that can bite humans in infested buildings. It thrives in the accumulated droppings and debris of pigeon roosts.

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Did You Know?

Urban pest controllers frequently encounter it when clearing pigeon infestations from building interiors.

How to Identify Pigeon Flea

Pigeon Flea (Ceratophyllus columbae) belongs to the order Siphonaptera, family Ceratophyllidae. Adults typically measure 2-3 mm.

Pigeon Flea Habitat

Pigeon Flea is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Europe, North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Pigeon Flea Diet and Feeding

Pigeon 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 Pigeon Flea Found?

Pigeon Flea can be found in Europe, North America, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Pigeon Flea can be found

Is Pigeon Flea Dangerous?

Pigeon 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.

Pigeon Flea Role in Nature

Pigeon Flea plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Pigeon 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

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Pigeon Flea

What does Pigeon Flea look like?

The Pigeon Flea typically measures 2-3 mm.

Where is Pigeon Flea found?

The Pigeon Flea is found in Europe, North America and typically inhabits woodlands environments.

What does Pigeon Flea eat?

The Pigeon Flea feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.

Is Pigeon Flea dangerous to humans?

The Pigeon 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 Pigeon Flea?

Urban pest controllers frequently encounter it when clearing pigeon infestations from building interiors.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Pigeon Flea (Ceratophyllus columbae). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/pigeon-flea

MLA:
"Pigeon Flea." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/pigeon-flea.