Bird Louse (likely)
Scientific Name: Menacanthus stramineus (example species)
Order & Family: Order: Psocodea (Suborder: Amblycera), Family: Menoponidae
Size: 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Typically found on the skin or among the feathers of birds (poultry, songbirds); occasionally found in bird-nesting areas or homes if a host is nearby.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on host feathers, skin scales, and sometimes blood if they puncture new quills or skin.
Behavior Patterns
Chewing lice are highly specialized parasites. They spend their entire life cycle on the host, laying eggs (nits) on the feathers. They move rapidly through feathers when disturbed.
Risks & Benefits
They do not live on humans but can cause temporary skin irritation or 'crawling' sensations if they transfer from a pet or wild bird nest. In birds, heavy infestations cause irritation, weight loss, and reduced egg production.
Identified on: 2/11/2026