Body Louse

Natural Habitat

Clothing and bedding of humans; moves to skin to feed

Diet & Feeding

Feeds exclusively on human blood multiple times a day

Behavior Patterns

Lives and lays eggs (nits) in the seams of clothing; only moves to the host's body to feed; typically associated with crowded or unsanitary conditions

Risks & Benefits

Significant health risk as they are primary vectors for diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. Can cause intense itching and skin rashes.

Identified on: 5/16/2026