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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 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#Lice|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.