Dog Biting Louse vs Peafowl Feather Louse

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dog Biting Louse Peafowl Feather Louse
Scientific Name Trichodectes canis Goniodes pavonis
Order Phthiraptera Phthiraptera
Family Trichodectidae Philopteridae
Size 1.5-2 mm 2-4 mm
Habitat Underground Gardens
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia, North America South Asia, Worldwide in captive populations
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Dog Biting Louse

A chewing louse that infests domestic dogs, feeding on skin debris and secretions. It can serve as an intermediate host for the dog tapeworm.

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Did You Know?

Dogs can acquire tapeworm infections by accidentally swallowing these lice during grooming, as the lice carry tapeworm larvae.

Peafowl Feather Louse

A large chewing louse found on peafowl and pheasants. It feeds on feather material and can damage the ornamental plumage of peacocks.

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Did You Know?

Heavy infestations can damage the spectacular tail feathers that peacocks depend on for courtship displays.