The Natural Introduction of Hectopsylla Psittaci, a Neotropical Sticktight Flea (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), on Cliff Swallows in California, USA

Abstract

Nineteen specimens of Hectopsylla psittaci were collecled from 2 specimens of Cliff Swallow, Petrochelidon pyrrhonota , captured in misl nets at the Point Reyes Bird Observatory, Marin Co., California, in 1977 and 1978. This is the first record from North America of the natural introduction of this Neotropical sticktight flea. A single previous record apparently resulted from introduction with a shipment of Neotropical birds into lhe San Diego Zoo.