Berliners Scratching: Exploring the Reason for Departure and Foxes' Connection

In the heart of Berlin, a taskforce named "Fuchs und Floh" (Fox and Flea) has been established to delve into the spread and causes of human flea infections, and to explore measures to combat them. The taskforce, comprising experts from the Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (Leibniz-IZW) and the Berlin Senate, is spearheading this investigation.

The human flea (Pulex irritans), once a common inhabitant of human dwellings, has been making a comeback in Berlin due to an increase in flea infestations among urban foxes. Although severe infections from fleas are rare, they can be annoying and potentially harmful, causing skin irritation, allergic reactions, and infections in humans. They can also transmit disease-causing bacteria or parasites.

The exact number of foxes in Berlin remains unknown, with estimates ranging from 5,000 to 12,000. These urban foxes have adapted well to city life, finding ample food and suitable places to build their dens. This, in turn, provides ideal conditions for flea development and reproduction.

Several districts in Berlin, particularly in the west, southwest, and Mitte, have reported at least seven cases of severe flea infestation, especially near fox dens. The current increase in infestations is being systematically recorded scientifically for the first time.

Foxes in Berlin are more scavengers than hunters. The fox tapeworm, which was once a concern, has not been detected in Berlin's fox population for a long time. Moreover, there has been no reported case of rabies in Berlin's fox population since 1998.

The Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW) is collecting and analyzing cases of flea infestations. They are also calling on people to collect fleas and send them to the institute with the date and location of the find.

To contain the infestation, the task force will use special bait to kill fleas and protect foxes for several months. From fox dens, it's possible for dogs, cats, children, or owners to pick up a flea and bring it home. This underscores the need for vigilance and cooperation from the public.

It cannot be ruled out that this problem exists in other districts as well. Other flea species, like the cat flea, have also set their sights on humans. As the investigation continues, the taskforce aims to provide insights and solutions to address this growing concern in Berlin's urban environment.