Louse
Scientific Name: Phthiraptera (likely Pediculus humanus capitis)
Order & Family: Order: Phthiraptera; Family: Pediculidae
Size: 2-3 mm (roughly the size of a sesame seed)
Natural Habitat
Human scalp and hair; they cling to hair shafts near the warmth of the scalp.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate parasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
They cannot jump or fly; they crawl from head to head via direct contact. Females lay eggs (nits) and glue them to hair shafts.
Risks & Benefits
Causes intense itching and scalp irritation. Not known to spread disease, but scratching can lead to secondary bacterial skin infections.
Identified on: 2/20/2026