Mole-parasite
Guides
Leptinus orientamericanus
Leptinus orientamericanus is a small beetle in the family Leiodidae, described by Peck in 1982. It is one of three North American species in the genus Leptinus, all of which are facultative ectoparasites of small mammals. This species is widespread east of the Mississippi River and has been documented on seven host species, with highest prevalence on Blarina brevicauda (northern short-tailed shrew) and Scalopus aquaticus (eastern mole). Activity is concentrated during fall and winter months.