Pubic Louse

Natural Habitat

Typically found in the coarse hair of human pubic regions, but can also inhabit eyelashes, eyebrows, chest hair, and armpits.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood by piercing the skin several times a day.

Behavior Patterns

They are slow-moving and remain attached to hair shafts close to the skin. They cannot jump or fly and are transmitted primarily through close physical contact or shared personal items like bedding/towels.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include intense itching (pruritus) caused by an allergic reaction to their saliva and secondary bacterial skin infections from scratching. They are not known to transmit systemic diseases but are indicators of close physical exposure. There are no ecological benefits to humans.

Identified on: 1/12/2026