Bug Identifier
Head Louse
Community identification

Head Louse

Pediculus humanus capitis

Order & Family
Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
Size
2 mm to 3 mm (about the size of a sesame seed)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Human scalp and hair, most commonly found near the neckline and behind the ears.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

Wingless insects that cannot jump or fly; they move by crawling. They cement their eggs (nits) to the base of hair shafts.

Risks & Benefits

Cause intense itching and possible secondary skin infections from scratching; however, they do not spread bacterial or viral diseases.