Body Louse (or possibly Head Louse)

Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus humanus (or Pediculus humanus capitis)

Order & Family: Order: Phthiraptera (Lice), Family: Pediculidae

Size: Adults are 2.3–3.6 mm long; Nymphs are smaller (1-2 mm).

Body Louse (or possibly Head Louse)

Natural Habitat

Exclusively on human hosts; Body lice live in clothing and bedding and move to the skin to feed, while head lice live exclusively on the scalp and hair.

Diet & Feeding

Hematophagous (blood-sucking); they feed frequently on human blood.

Behavior Patterns

They are ectoparasites that cling to fibers (clothing) or hairs using specialized claw-like legs. They cannot fly or jump. The female lays eggs (nits) glued to hair shafts or clothing fibers.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause intense itching (pruritus), skin irritation, and secondary bacterial infections from scratching. Body lice specifically are vectors for diseases like typhus, trench fever, and relapsing fever. Benefits: None known.

Identified on: 2/27/2026