Body louse nit (egg)

Natural Habitat

Typically found on clothing, particularly along the seams of inner garments that are in direct contact with the skin.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly hematophagous; both nymphs and adults feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike head lice, body lice live and lay their eggs on clothing and only move to the skin to feed. They are spread through direct physical contact or by sharing infested clothing/bedding.

Risks & Benefits

Significant health risks as they can transmit serious bacterial diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. Infestations cause intense itching and skin rashes.

Identified on: 3/12/2026