Louse (Human Head Louse)
Scientific Name: 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.
Identified on: 2/13/2026