Where do head lice inhabit? - briefly
Head lice live on the human scalp, anchoring their eggs to hair shafts near the neck and behind the ears. They survive by feeding on blood from the scalp skin.
Where do head lice inhabit? - in detail
Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) occupy a very specific micro‑environment on the human host. The adult insects and nymphs reside on the scalp, where the temperature is consistently between 30 °C and 34 °C and the humidity is high enough to prevent desiccation. They cling to hair shafts using hooked claws, positioning themselves within a few centimeters of the skin surface to access blood meals through the scalp epidermis.
The preferred attachment sites include the occipital area, the nape of the neck, and the region behind the ears. These zones provide a dense concentration of hair, a stable temperature, and limited exposure to wind, which together create optimal conditions for feeding and reproduction. Nits (eggs) are cemented to the base of hair strands, typically within 1 mm of the scalp, where the warmth accelerates embryonic development.
Although head lice are highly adapted to the human head, they can survive temporarily on personal items that contact the scalp, such as:
- Combs and brushes
- Hats, helmets, and scarves
- Pillowcases and bedding
Survival off the host is limited to 24–48 hours under ambient conditions; prolonged exposure leads to dehydration and death. Consequently, the insects do not establish colonies on clothing, body hair, or other body surfaces, as these areas lack the necessary temperature, humidity, and blood supply.
In summary, the habitat of head lice consists of the scalp region with dense hair, warm and humid microclimate, and specific anatomical locations that facilitate feeding and egg attachment. Their presence on non‑human surfaces is transient and solely for short‑range transfer between hosts.