Pinworm

Natural Habitat

The human large intestine; eggs are often found on household surfaces, clothing, bedding, and in dust.

Diet & Feeding

Content of the human intestine, including partially digested food and intestinal bacteria.

Behavior Patterns

Adult females migrate out of the anus at night to deposit thousands of eggs on the perianal skin. This causes itching, leading to scratching and further spread of eggs via hands and surfaces.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include intense itching, irritability, and disrupted sleep. They are highly contagious but generally considered a nuisance rather than a serious health threat. There are no known ecosystem benefits.

Identified on: 12/30/2025