Community identification
Human Head Louse (Nit/Egg)
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea; Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- Nits (eggs) are 0.8 mm by 0.3 mm; adults are 2-3 mm long.
Natural Habitat
Exclusively the human scalp and hair, where they stay close to the skin for warmth and food.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
Nits are glued to hair shafts near the scalp. They hatch in 7-10 days into nymphs, which mature into adults that cannot fly or jump but crawl between hosts.
Risks & Benefits
Causes intense itching and scalp irritation. They do not spread disease, but scratching can lead to secondary bacterial skin infections.