Body louse

Natural Habitat

Typically found on human bodies and in the seams of clothing worn close to the skin. They move to the skin to feed and then return to the clothing.

Diet & Feeding

Strictly hematophagous; they feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

They are highly dependent on human warmth and blood. Unlike head lice, they lay their eggs (nits) in the seams of clothing rather than on hair. They spread through direct physical contact or contact with infested clothing and bedding.

Risks & Benefits

They pose significant health risks as vectors for serious diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. Infestations (pediculosis corporis) cause intense itching and skin irritation. There are no ecological benefits to humans.

Identified on: 4/4/2026