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Lice are obligate ectoparasites of every avian and most mammalian species. They are only a few millimeters long and like [[Fleas - WikiBlood|fleas]], are wingless but unlike [[Fleas - WikiBlood|fleas]] are dorsoventrally flattened.

Lice are obligate ectoparasites of every avian and most mammalian species. They are only a few millimeters long and like [[Fleas - WikiBlood|fleas]], are wingless but unlike [[Fleas - WikiBlood|fleas]] are dorsoventrally flattened.

Lice are host specific, permanent parasites which cause [[Parasitic skin infections-Pathology#Lice|pediculosis]]. The louse saliva and faeces contain allergenic substances which cause irritation, rubbing, licking and skin damage leading to decreased host productivity.

Lice are host specific, permanent parasites which cause [[Parasitic skin infections - Pathology|pediculosis]]. The louse saliva and faeces contain allergenic substances which cause irritation, rubbing, licking and skin damage leading to decreased host productivity.

Mammalian lice species have a single pair of claws on the ends of stout legs, whereas avian lice species have a double claw on each leg.

Mammalian lice species have a single pair of claws on the ends of stout legs, whereas avian lice species have a double claw on each leg.