Human Head Louse

The human scalp, primarily near the ears and the nape of the neck

Exclusively human blood, consumed by piercing the skin several times a day

Obligate ectoparasites that cannot jump or fly; they crawl quickly from hair to hair. Eggs (nits) are glued to the base of hair shafts.

Causes intense itching and social distress. They do not transmit diseases, though secondary bacterial infections can occur from scratching.