Bovicola ovis

Scientific Classification

Class Insecta
Order Phthiraptera
Suborder Ischnocera
Family Trichodectidae

Identification

Bovicola ovis is a chewing lice around 3mm in length. It is reddish brown in colour, and has a single claw on each of its tarsi.


  • One chewing louse
    • Damalinia ovis
  • Two sucking lice
    • Lignognathus spp.
      • The 'foot louse' and the 'face louse'
  • Causes fleece damage