Human Head Louse

Natural Habitat

The human scalp, primarily living on and around the hairs of the head.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasite; feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

Wingless insects that cannot jump or fly; they move by crawling. Females lay eggs (nits) and cement them to the base of hair shafts. They survive only a short time (1-2 days) if separated from a human host.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Causes intense itching and scalp irritation. They are not known to spread disease, but secondary skin infections can occur from scratching. Benefit: None to humans or the ecosystem.

Identified on: 4/4/2026