Artificial light at night can be very confusing for insects. The most disruptive wavelengths are generally found in the blue and ultraviolet parts of the light spectrum. Many insects use the moon or stars to navigate, and the bright, blue-toned light from modern LED bulbs can trick them into flying toward the light instead of toward their natural destination. This leads to exhaustion or death because they fly in circles around the light source.
Short wavelengths also interfere with how insects communicate and find mates. For many species, specific light colors signal the presence of food or a partner. When we use bright blue or white lights, it creates a kind of light pollution that masks these natural signals. This makes it harder for them to reproduce and keep their populations healthy.
To help protect local wildlife, it is a good idea to use warm-colored lights, such as those with amber or red tones. These longer wavelengths are much less attractive to insects and are less likely to disrupt their natural behaviors. Choosing shielded fixtures that point light downward can also reduce the amount of stray light that confuses nocturnal creatures in your garden or yard.
