Human Head Louse
Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis
Order & Family: Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
Size: 2.0 to 3.0 mm in length
Natural Habitat
The scalp and hair of human beings
Diet & Feeding
Obligate ectoparasite that feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day
Behavior Patterns
They are wingless and cannot jump; they move by crawling. They glue their eggs (nits) to the base of hair shafts. They undergo incomplete metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).
Risks & Benefits
Cause intense itching and possible secondary skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit diseases, but they are a significant social and public health nuisance.
Identified on: 6/2/2026