Examples of insects that are attracted to light include ants, aphids, moths, barklice, and beetles.
Insects are naturally drawn to light, and there are a few specific insects that are particularly attracted to it. This can be a nuisance for people who want to keep their homes or gardens free of pests, as these insects can often be difficult to get rid of.
Here is a list of some of the most common insects that are attracted to light, as well as their respective habitats.
Examples of Insects that Are Attracted to Light
1. Ants
| Scientific Name | Formicidae |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Ants are most commonly found near sources of light, such as windowsills and doors. They are attracted to the warmth that these areas provide, as well as the food that is often left behind by people.
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2. Aphids
| Scientific Name | Aphidoidea |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found in a variety of colors, including green, black, brown, and yellow. They are often found feeding on the sap of plants, and they are particularly attracted to light and light-colored flowers.
3. Bark Flies
| Scientific Name | Psocoptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Bark flies are found in wooded areas and are often attracted to the light that shines through the trees. They are small, dark-colored flies that measure about 1/8th of an inch in length.
Related Article: 13 Insects that Look Like Leaves
4. Barklice
| Scientific Name | Psocoptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
These small insects are often found in trees, on fences, or in other wooded areas. They are attracted to light that is shining through the cracks in bark or leaves.
5. Bed Bugs
| Scientific Name | Cimicidae |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
These pests are commonly found in homes, as they are attracted to the warmth of bodies. They are often found in beds, as their name suggests, but can also be found in other furniture around the home.
6. Bees
| Scientific Name | Anthophila |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Bees are attracted to light because they use it as a navigation tool. They are able to see the ultraviolet spectrum of light, which helps them to find their way back to their hives.
7. Beetles
| Scientific Name | Coleoptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Many species of beetles are attracted to light, and they can often be found near porch lights or streetlights. They are particularly active at night when they are drawn to the light.
8. Booklice
| Scientific Name | Psocoptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
These small, soft-bodied insects are often found in homes, as they are attracted to the warmth and humidity. They feed on mold and mildew, and can often be found near bookcases or basements.
9. Butterflies
| Scientific Name | Rhopalocera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Many species of butterfly are attracted to light, and they can often be seen fluttering around outdoor lights in the evening. They are particularly drawn to white light, but any kind of light source can attract them.
10. Caddisflies
| Scientific Name | Trichoptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Caddisflies are found in almost every continent, except for Antarctica. They typically live near streams or other bodies of water, as their larvae need fresh water to survive. Caddisflies are nocturnal insects and are often attracted to porch lights or other light sources that are close to their habitats.
11. Cicadas
| Scientific Name | Cicadoidea |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
These large insects are most often found in tropical or subtropical climates. They are attracted to the light of the sun and are often seen swarming around streetlights or other sources of artificial light at night.
12. Earwigs
| Scientific Name | Dermaptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
These insects are nocturnal and are most active at night, which is when they are drawn to light. They often hide in dark, moist places during the day, such as under rocks or in garden beds.
13. Flies
| Scientific Name | Diptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Flies are perhaps the most common type of insect that is drawn to light. They are attracted to both artificial and natural light sources, and can often be found near windows or doors.
14. Gnats
| Scientific Name | Diptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Gnats are small, flies that are often attracted to indoor lights. They are typically found near garbage cans, damp areas, or potted plants.
15. Lacewings
| Scientific Name | Neuroptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Lacewings are common predators of many soft-bodied pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs. They are attracted to light-colored objects, such as porch lights and white walls.
16. Leafhoppers
| Scientific Name | Cicadellidae |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
These small, winged insects are found in most gardens and are attracted to both artificial and natural light sources. They feed on the sap of plants, which can cause damage to the plant.
17. Mayflies
| Scientific Name | Ephemeroptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | North America |
Often found near lakes and rivers, mayflies are one of the most well-known insects that are attracted to light. They typically emerge in late spring or early summer, and their larvae are often used as bait by fishermen.
18. Midges
| Scientific Name | Culicoides impunctatus |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Midges are one of the most common insects that are attracted to light. They are small, fly-like creatures that often congregate in large numbers near sources of light. Midges are typically found near food sources, such as garbage cans or fruit trees.
19. Mosquitoes
| Scientific Name | Culicidae |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Mosquitoes are perhaps the most well-known insects that are attracted to light. They are often found near sources of light at night, such as porch lights or streetlights. Mosquitoes are drawn to light because it makes it easier for them to find their prey.
20. Moths
| Scientific Name | Lepidoptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Moths are one of the most well-known insects that are attracted to light. They are also one of the most difficult to get rid of, as they can often be found fluttering around porch lights or other outdoor lights. Moths typically lay their eggs on clothing or fabric, which is why they are often found in closets or drawers.
21. Planthoppers
| Scientific Name | Fulgoroidea |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Planthoppers are a type of insect that is usually found in tropical or subtropical climates. They get their name from their tendency to feed on the sap of plants, which can often damage the plant. Planthoppers are attracted to light because it helps them find their food source.
22. Sawflies
| Scientific Name | Symphyta |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
These insects are found in North America, Europe, and Asia. They are attracted to light-colored surfaces and are often drawn to artificial lights.
23. Shield Bugs
| Scientific Name | Pentatomidae |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Shield bugs are found in gardens and woodlands, and are attracted to light that is shining through trees and shrubs. They are typically brown or green in color, and their wings are covered with a protective shield.
24. Wasps
| Scientific Name | Hymenoptera |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Wasps are one of the most common insects that are attracted to light. They often build their nests near sources of light, such as porch lights or windows.
25. Weevils
| Scientific Name | Curculionoidea |
| Type of Animal | Insect |
| Range | Worldwide |
Weevils are small, brownish-black beetles that are often found in gardens or near sources of food. They are attracted to light because it helps them find mates and food.
Conclusion
There are many different types of insects that are attracted to light. This is because light can provide warmth, a navigation tool, or a food source. Many insects are nocturnal creatures, which means that they are most active at night when there is less light available.
Hi, I’m Garreth. Living in South Africa I’ve had the pleasure of seeing most of these animals up close and personal. When I was younger I always wanted to be a game ranger but unfortunately, life happens and now at least I get to write about them and tell you my experiences.