Bird Lice (Feather Lice)

Scientific Name: Menacanthus stramineus or Columbicola columbae (General representative)

Order & Family: Order Phthiraptera, Suborder Ischnocera/Amblycera

Size: 0.5 mm to 10 mm (most are approximately 2-3 mm)

Bird Lice (Feather Lice)

Natural Habitat

Found exclusively on the bodies of birds, specifically within the feathers and on the skin.

Diet & Feeding

Feed on feather fragments, skin debris, blood, and cutaneous secretions.

Behavior Patterns

Obligate parasites that spend their entire life cycle on the host; they move quickly through feathers to avoid preening and lay eggs (nits) along feather shafts.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include irritation, feather damage, weight loss, and reduced egg production in poultry; they do not typically infest humans but can cause temporary itching if handled.

Identified on: 3/7/2026