Head Louse
Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis
Order & Family: Order: Psocodea; Family: Pediculidae
Size: 2.1 to 3.3 mm (roughly the size of a sesame seed).
Natural Habitat
Human scalp and hair, remaining close to the skin for warmth and food.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
They are wingless and cannot jump; they move by crawling from hair to hair. Females lay eggs (nits) which are glued to the hair shaft.
Risks & Benefits
They do not transmit disease but cause intense itching, local irritation, and potential secondary skin infections from scratching.
Identified on: 3/2/2026