Community identification
Louse (Human Head Louse)
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea; Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- 2 to 3 mm in length (about the size of a sesame seed).
Natural Habitat
The human scalp and hair, where they stay near the skin for warmth and food.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate parasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
They are wingless and cannot jump or fly; they move by crawling. They attach their eggs (nits) firmly to hair shafts near the scalp with a glue-like substance. Eggs hatch in about 7-10 days.
Risks & Benefits
They cause intense itching and scalp irritation. While they do not spread disease, scratching can lead to secondary bacterial skin infections. They offer no ecological benefits to humans.