Navigation Confusion
Nocturnal insects, like moths, use the moon and stars for navigation. Artificial lights can disorient them, leading them to fly in circles around the light source.
Misinterpretation of Light
Insects often mistake artificial lights for natural light sources. They may perceive streetlights or porch lights as the moon or sunlight and are drawn towards them.
Phototaxis
Many insects exhibit phototaxis, meaning they are naturally attracted to light. Positive phototaxis makes bugs move towards the light, which can lead them to concentrated artificial sources.
UV Light
Ultraviolet (UV) light is invisible to humans but highly visible to insects. Many artificial lights emit UV rays, making them even more attractive to bugs.
Feeding Opportunities
Lights attract insects, which, in turn, attract predators like spiders. Bugs may be drawn to lights as they anticipate feeding on smaller insects also attracted to the light.
Mating Behavior
Some insects use light signals for mating. Artificial lights can disrupt these communication signals, leading bugs to gather around the light source instead.
Heat and Energy
Many lights emit heat, which can be mistaken for warmth from the sun. Insects seeking warmth might be drawn to artificial lights, especially on cooler nights.