Is compensation obligatory for killing lice (Qaml)?
Chapter on Ransom (Fidyah) and Penalty for Hunting
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
There are conflicting narrations regarding lice, but the sound position is that there is no compensation. This is because lice are not edible, are considered pests, and have neither equivalent nor value. Ibn Abbas stated concerning a man who killed a louse he had thrown away and could not find that it was lost game which should not be sought after.
Supporting text
The Jurist (Al-Qadi) differentiated: compensation is only debated for lice removed from the hair; if it is brushed off the body's surface or clothing, there is no penalty according to one narration. Those who mandate compensation suggest that giving any charity concerning it is better. Another narration suggests that whatever is given as charity is better.