Louse egg (Nit)

Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis

Order & Family: Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae

Size: Approximately 0.8 mm long (about the size of a knot in thread).

Nits are found attached to the hair shafts of humans, primarily on the head, near the scalp.

Empty egg casings (nits) do not feed; however, hatched lice feed exclusively on human blood from the scalp.

The eggs are glued firmly to hair shafts by the female louse. They hatch within 7 to 10 days into nymphs, which then mature into adult lice.

While they do not spread disease, they cause intense itching (pruritus) and social distress. Benefits are none; they are considered parasitic pests.

Identified on: 6/25/2026