Community identification
Head Louse
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order Psocodea, Family Pediculidae
- Size
- 2mm to 4mm in length
Natural Habitat
Exclusively on the human scalp and hair
Diet & Feeding
Strictly hematophagous, feeding on human blood multiple times a day
Behavior Patterns
Wingless insects that crawl but cannot jump or fly; females glue eggs (nits) to hair shafts close to the scalp
Risks & Benefits
Causes scalp itching and potential secondary skin infections from scratching; does not transmit disease but is a significant social and public health nuisance