[On the phenology of the flea Xenopsylla cunicularis Smit, 1957 (Siphonaptera, Pulicidae) parasite of the European rabbit].

A population of Xenopsylla cunicularis parasite on the European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus was studied monthly during the year 1977 in the South-West of France. The large-scale emergence of adults take place at the beginning of summer. A major part of them is then found in the soil of the burrows. Reproduction lease at the beginning of autumn which is marked by a great mortality. Some fleas persisted in winter, and they are found on the hosts. The annual cycle of X. cunicularis is compared with that of Spilopsyllus cuniculi and the epidemiological interest is laid stress on.