Head Louse

Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis

Order & Family: Psocodea, Pediculidae

Size: 2 mm to 3 mm (about the size of a sesame seed)

Head Louse

Natural Habitat

Found exclusively on the human scalp and hair

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasite that feeds exclusively on human blood several times a day

Behavior Patterns

They are wingless and crawl between hairs; they cannot jump or fly. They attach their eggs (nits) to the base of hair shafts with a specialized glue.

Risks & Benefits

While they cause intense itching and psychological distress, they do not transmit bacterial or viral diseases. Over-scratching can lead to secondary skin infections.

Identified on: 6/16/2026