Community identification
Head Louse / Egg (Nit)
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- Nits (eggs) are 0.8 mm; adults are 2-3 mm.
Natural Habitat
Primarily the human scalp, often found attached to hair shafts near the base of the neck and behind the ears.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
Lice cannot fly or jump; they move by crawling. Eggs (nits) are glued firmly to the hair shaft and hatch in 6 to 9 days.
Risks & Benefits
Direct risk includes intense itching and potential secondary skin infections from scratching; they do not transmit diseases. Minimal ecosystem benefit as a specialized parasite.