Head louse
Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis
Order & Family: Order Psocodea, Family Pediculidae
Size: 2-3 mm (roughly the size of a sesame seed)
Natural Habitat
The scalp and hair of the human head, especially behind the ears and near the neckline.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
They do not jump or fly but crawl between hosts via direct contact; they lay eggs (nits) firmly glued to hair shafts.
Risks & Benefits
Causes intense itching and secondary skin infections from scratching; they are a significant social nuisance but do not transmit major diseases.
Identified on: 5/21/2026