| Scientific name | Pediculus humanus capitis |
|---|---|
| Group | Other Insects |
| Size | 2–3 mm (up to about 0.12 in) |
| Colors | Tan, Gray and White |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Indoors, anywhere |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | Yes |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Can bite or sting |
How to identify it
The head louse is a tiny member of the other insects group. Crickets, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies and other groups. Check for these three features:
- Sesame-seed-size tan or grayish insect on hair
- Oval nits cemented to hair shafts near the scalp
- Itching behind the ears and at the nape of the neck
About this bug
A tiny, wingless insect that lives only on the human scalp and feeds on blood. Its eggs, called nits, are glued firmly to hair near the scalp.
You'll usually find head lice indoors. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
Head lice are itchy but don't spread disease; they spread mainly by head-to-head contact.
Our rating: Can bite or sting, meaning it can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects.
When you'll see head lice
Head Lice are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: indoors, anywhere.
About other insects
The head louse is one of the other insects. This group covers insects from several orders, including crickets, grasshoppers, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies, lacewings and planthoppers. Their life cycles vary widely: fleas and lacewings go through complete metamorphosis, while crickets, grasshoppers, mantises and lice grow gradually through nymph stages.
Check the specific profile for timing, because each of these insects has its own season and habits.
What to do about it
- Use an over-the-counter or prescription lice treatment exactly as directed
- Comb wet hair with a fine-toothed nit comb every few days for two weeks
- Wash recently used bedding and hats in hot water
Bugs that look similar
Group: Head Louse belongs to other insects, while bed bug belongs to true bugs. Crickets, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies and other groups.
Color: Head Lice are tan, gray and white; cat fleas are brown and black.
Frequently asked questions
What does a head louse look like?
Sesame-seed-size tan or grayish insect on hair. Adults measure 2–3 mm (up to about 0.12 in).
Does the head louse bite or sting?
It can bite. It does not sting. Head lice are itchy but don't spread disease; they spread mainly by head-to-head contact.
Where do head lice live?
Head Lice live indoors.
When are head lice most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.