Louse egg (Nit)

Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis (for head louse)

Order & Family: Phthiraptera, Pediculidae

Size: Approximately 0.8 mm long and 0.3 mm wide

Louse egg (Nit)

Natural Habitat

Human hair, typically close to the scalp for warmth and moisture

Diet & Feeding

Lice, which hatch from these eggs, feed exclusively on human blood

Behavior Patterns

Nits are laid by female head lice and firmly glued to individual hair shafts. They are usually found within 1 cm of the scalp. They hatch after about 7-10 days, leaving behind a white, empty shell.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Head lice infestations (pediculosis) can cause intense itching, scalp irritation, and secondary bacterial infections due to scratching. They do not transmit diseases. Benefits: None for humans; they are considered a pest.

Identified on: 10/31/2025