During 2004–2007, 1,222 birds comprising 184 species and 540 small mammals comprising 61 species were examined for ectoparasites as part of a broader biodiversity survey and inventory program conducted in Guangxi and Guizhou Provinces in southern China. A collection of 87 fleas was obtained. They included eight species representing seven genera and four families: Dasypsyllus gallinulae gallinulae (Dale), Macrostylophora jiangkouensis Li and Huang (Ceratophyllidae); Palaeopsylla incurva Jordan, Palaeopsylla remota Jordan (Ctenophthalmidae); Nycteridopsylla iae Beaucournu and Kock, Thaumapsylla breviceps Rothschld (Ischnopsyllidae); and Aviostivalius klossi Jordan and Rothschild, and Lentistivalius insolli Traub (Pygiopsyllidae). Illustrations are provided to supplement those in the original description of M. jiangkouensis. The host preference for L. insolli for passerine birds is established with certainty and its derivation and distribution are discussed. The potential impact of predatory ants on flea populations at low elevations in tropical latitudes is considered.