
Community identification
Head Louse
Pediculus humanus capitis
- Order & Family
- Order: Psocodea, Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- 2 mm to 3 mm (about the size of a sesame seed)
Natural Habitat
Human scalp and hair, most commonly found behind the ears and near the neckline.
Diet & Feeding
Obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood several times a day.
Behavior Patterns
Cannot jump or fly; spread through direct head-to-head contact. They attach eggs (nits) to hair shafts near the scalp.
Risks & Benefits
Cause intense itching and possible secondary skin infections from scratching; they do not transmit diseases but are a significant public health nuisance.