Foot and face lice of sheep - Agriculture Western Australia. By Eileen O'Neill, Stock Inspector, Katanning and Steve Penny, Stock Inspector, Merredin Summary Foot and face lice are uncommon in WA and usually cause little economic loss, but they are of major concern if found on stud sheep. They cause minimal economic loss but are of major concern to breeders if found on stud sheep.
Rams seem to be worst affected by both species of lice.
They are not usually reported to Agriculture Western Australia. Infestations are usually light and farmers may not be aware of their presence. It is bluish-grey and up to 2 mm long when fully engorged. It has a short pointed head which is buried in the skin when the louse is feeding. It tends to remain in one area.