Body Louse

Natural Habitat

Found on humans, specifically primarily in the clothing of infested individuals, moving to the skin only to feed.

Diet & Feeding

Hematophagous; feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike head lice, they lay their eggs (nits) in the seams of clothing and move to the body to feed. They are spread through direct contact with an infested person or their clothing/bedding.

Risks & Benefits

Significant health risks; they are vectors for diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. They cause intense itching and skin rashes (pediculosis).

Identified on: 3/12/2026