Human Head Louse

Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis

Order & Family: Order: Psocodea (formerly Phthiraptera); Family: Pediculidae

Size: 2mm to 3mm (roughly the size of a sesame seed)

Human Head Louse

Natural Habitat

Exclusively inhabits the human scalp and hair, clinging to hair shafts near the skin for warmth.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate blood feeders, consuming human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

They are wingless, crawl-only insects that cannot jump or fly. They attach their eggs (nits) to hair shafts with a glue-like substance and die within 24–48 hours if they fall off a human host.

Risks & Benefits

They do not spread disease, but their bites cause intense itching and scalp irritation. Secondary skin infections can occur from excessive scratching. They offer no benefits to the ecosystem.

Identified on: 1/12/2026