If you leave your porch light on at night, then you probably know what it’s like to discover dozens of insects fluttering around the bulb within a matter of hours. But, why exactly are so many pests attracted to light? While there isn’t one set scientific explanation, there are a few theories as to why insects are drawn to sources of artificial light:
Natural Attraction to Light, or Phototaxis
Phototaxis is a reflexive reaction to light, which causes an organism to instinctively move either toward or away from the light source; attraction toward the light is known as positive phototaxis, and repulsion is called negative phototaxis. These are hard-wired behaviors that impact all sorts of organisms, from single cells to larger creatures. That’s why many people believe phototaxis is the reason some insects, such as fruit flies and moths, are instinctively attracted to light.
Easier Flight and Navigation
Another popular theory is that insects rely upon sources of light to navigate in the dark. This theory is rooted in the idea that insects use natural light from the sun or the moon to navigate. Thus, if they encounter a fixed source of light, they become confused and mistakenly use the bulb as their navigational landmark.
Increased Sense of Safety
Many people also believe that insects follow light as a “beacon” of safety. The idea here is that insects use natural sources of light – such as the sun or the moon – to move upward and away from potential predators. Since most natural light sources are positioned high in the sky, they would lead insects away from the ground and out of harm’s way.
Tips For Keeping Pests Away From Your Porch Light
A giant swarm of insects swirling around your porch light can be unsightly and stressful, especially if you have to deal with it on a nightly basis. While it can be challenging to completely avoid pests outdoors, there are a few ways you can prevent pests from swarming near your porch light:
- Turn off any unnecessary lights and consider installing a screen
- Try using an orange or yellow-colored LED lightbulb
- Light citronella or geraniol candles if you plan to remain outdoors
If you have tried everything and are still struggling with insects swarming your porch at night, it may be time to call a professional. For quality pest control services in the Bellevue metropolitan area, you can count on the experts at United Pest Solutions! We have over 60 years of experience providing homeowners with affordable services and long-lasting results, so you can enjoy a pest-free porch in no time. Contact us today to get started!