Head Louse
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- Adults are typically 2-3 mm long.
Natural Habitat
The human scalp, particularly behind the ears and near the nape of the neck. Only found on humans.
Diet & Feeding
Head lice are obligate blood-feeding parasites of humans. They feed several times a day on small amounts of blood from the human scalp.
Behavior Patterns
Head lice spend their entire lives on human hosts. They crawl, but cannot fly or jump. Females lay eggs (nits) near the base of hair shafts, which hatch in about 7-10 days. Nymphs mature into adults in another 7-10 days. They are most active at night when feeding.
Risks & Benefits
Potential Risks: Head lice infestations (pediculosis) can cause intense itching, leading to scratching and potential secondary bacterial skin infections. They are not known to transmit diseases. Potential Benefits: There are no known benefits of head lice to humans or the ecosystem.