Community identification
Head louse (nits/eggs)
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order Psocodea, Family Pediculidae
- Size
- 0.5mm to 1mm (egg/nit size); adults up to 3mm
Natural Habitat
Human scalp and hair shafts
Diet & Feeding
Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day
Behavior Patterns
Eggs are glued to hair shafts near the scalp. They cannot jump or fly and are transmitted through direct head-to-head contact.
Risks & Benefits
Causes intense itching and potential secondary skin infections from scratching; they do not transmit systemic diseases but are a significant public health nuisance.