Head Louse / Nits
Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis
Order & Family: Order: Psocodea / Family: Pediculidae
Size: Adults: 2–3 mm long; Nits (eggs): 0.5–0.8 mm long.
Natural Habitat
The human scalp, primarily living near the hair roots and neck area.
Diet & Feeding
Human blood, which they consume multiple times a day by biting the scalp.
Behavior Patterns
They cannot jump or fly; they crawl from one hair shaft to another. Females attach oval-shaped eggs (nits) to hair shafts with a waterproof glue-like substance.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include intense itching, scalp irritation, and secondary skin infections from scratching; benefits are none, they are obligate parasites.
Identified on: 6/3/2026