Body Louse

Natural Habitat

Typically found on human clothing, particularly in the seams and folds, moving to the skin only to feed.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasite; feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

They lay their eggs (nits) in the seams of clothing and move back and forth between the host's body and garments. They are wingless and spread through direct contact with an infested person or their belongings.

Risks & Benefits

High risk to human health as they are vectors for serious diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. They cause intense itching and skin irritation. No ecological benefits.

Identified on: 3/12/2026