Community identification
Head Louse
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- 2.1–3.3 mm in length
Natural Habitat
The human scalp and hair
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophage (feeds strictly on human blood multiple times a day)
Behavior Patterns
Cannot fly or jump; moves via crawling. Females glue eggs (nits) to hair shafts close to the scalp. Most active in the dark.
Risks & Benefits
Causes scalp itching and potential secondary skin infections from scratching; however, they are not known vectors of any disease. Mainly a hygiene nuisance.