Cattle Biting Louse vs Chicken Body Louse
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cattle Biting Louse | Chicken Body Louse |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Bovicola bovis | Menacanthus stramineus |
| Order | Phthiraptera | Phthiraptera |
| Family | Trichodectidae | Menoponidae |
| Size | 1.5-2 mm | 3-3.5 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania | Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Cattle Biting Louse
A chewing louse that infests cattle worldwide, causing irritation and economic losses in livestock. Infestations worsen in winter when cattle have thick coats.
Did You Know?
Winter infestations of this louse can cause cattle to rub and scratch so intensely that they damage fences and lose significant weight.
Chicken Body Louse
The most damaging louse of domestic poultry, feeding on feathers, skin, and blood. Heavy infestations cause feather loss, reduced egg production, and anemia.
Did You Know?
This louse is unusual among bird lice because it actively feeds on blood by gnawing through pin feathers, not just on feather material.