Human Head Louse

Exclusively on the human scalp, often clinging to hair shafts near the skin for warmth and access to blood.

Obligate parasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.

They are wingless and cannot jump or fly; they move through direct head-to-head contact. Females lay eggs (nits) glued to the base of hair shafts.

They cause scalp itching and potential secondary skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit diseases, but infestation causes social distress and requires treatment.