Chicken Body Louse vs Human Head Louse
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Chicken Body Louse | Human Head Louse |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Menacanthus stramineus | Pediculus humanus capitis |
| Order | Phthiraptera | Phthiraptera |
| Family | Menoponidae | Pediculidae |
| Size | 3-3.5 mm | 2-3 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Underground |
| Diet | Blood Feeders | Blood Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania | Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Human Head Louse
An obligate ectoparasite of the human scalp that feeds on blood several times per day. It spreads through direct head-to-head contact.
Did You Know?
Head lice have co-evolved with humans for millions of years, and DNA analysis of lice has helped trace ancient human migration patterns.