
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)
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.