Bird Louse / Chewing Louse

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the bodies and feathers of birds, particularly poultry and wild fowl, or in nesting materials.

Diet & Feeding

Chewing mouthparts used to feed on feathers, skin fragments, and occasionally blood oozing from existing wounds.

Behavior Patterns

They are permanent ectoparasites that spend their entire life cycle on the host. They move rapidly through feathers when disturbed. High infestations can cause significant irritation.

Risks & Benefits

While they primarily infest birds, humans can experience itching if they come into contact with infested nesting; they do not typically survive long on humans. They represent a significant pest in poultry production.

Identified on: 1/13/2026