Human Head Louse

The scalp of human beings, specifically near the hair follicles

Strictly hematophagous (blood-feeding) on human blood several times a day

Crawling only (cannot hop or fly); they lay eggs (nits) firmly attached to the hair shaft and are most active in the dark

Causes intense itching and scalp irritation; they do not transmit diseases but can lead to secondary skin infections from scratching