Why Bugs are Attracted to Light and UV Light
Blog written by Katchy.
Being a homeowner is great, but it's not always easy. You have to deal with a number of problems, including pesky bugs. Getting rid of or keeping bugs away from your house can be a daunting task. However, there are several effective ways to do so, including the use of UV light traps.
Figuring out why bugs are attracted to light is the first step to understanding how to get rid of them. Let's explore why they are attracted to UV light and how to use light traps to control and exterminate them.
Why are bugs attracted to UV light?
Many bugs are attracted to UV light, particularly the ones that come out at night. This explains why bug zappers function well because they emit ultraviolet rays. Most insects have a phototactic behavior which is why they move towards light sources, looking for food or mates. Studies show that female moths emit UV light while looking for a suitable place to lay eggs.
In general, numerous forms of insects are attracted to UV light for various reasons. They use UV light to communicate with each other. They secrete chemicals called "pheromones" at specific times and in different places. Other insects can recognize these pheromones using a unique organ that responds to particular wavelengths of light, such as UV lights. Through such communication, insects organize themselves and perform activities such as mating.
Are night insects attracted to lamps because of heat or light?
Night insects are attracted to lamps because of heat. Most night insects are nocturnal, which means they only come out at night. They are attracted to light sources of higher temperatures, so they are often found around streetlamps, car lights, or even luminescent lights that give off heat.
During the day, some of the insects that are most attracted to UV light are flies. This is because their eyes have a photoreceptor called "Lanthanide-activated cryptochrome" that responds to ultraviolet rays. The cryptochrome activates the nerves in the fly's compound eye that alerts it of danger, such as predators. In response, the fly moves away from the light source. The use of UV light traps can help to control the flies and other insects.
What are UV lights traps?
UV light traps have been used to effectively control pests for decades. Even if not all are similar, the basic components include a fluorescent light source and an insect trap. They were initially used for pest control in agriculture, but nowadays, they are used indoors to control bugs and other small flying insects, such as within homes or business environments.
How do fly light traps work?
Fly light traps work by luring the flies into their trap with a high-intensity black light. This attracts the flies to the fly light trap, which is made of non-toxic acrylic. Once inside, they cannot escape through the triangular openings that form a funnel-shaped entrance designed explicitly for trapping insects. The UV lights are shielded so that they do not affect the bugs or kill them.
Do UV lights kill bugs?
Yes, UV bug lights can kill bugs. This is why they are also called bug killers or insect zappers. However, these lights are not 100% efficient at getting rid of insects because some insects have genes that enable them to "hide" from ultraviolet light by adapting to it after several exposures. This explains why you should always use the lights in combination with other techniques to control bugs.
Are UV light traps safe?
UV bug lights are safe for humans if they are used correctly. UL-listed lights are employed by professionals to prevent insects from getting in the house. However, these UV bug lights are harmful to pets and kids if misused. Always read through the manual and follow all the safety precautions tips when using UV light traps.
Do UV fly traps work?
Yes, UV fly traps work. They use a glue board to catch insects and bugs such as flies, mosquitoes, and other small flying creatures. Most manufacturers add food odor attractants to their traps to lure the bugs. The smell is very similar to that of garbage or rotten food, which attracts bugs and makes them stick onto the glue trap when they come close.
The UV light in this trap attracts insects, but instead of killing them, it actually helps capture them. The ultraviolet lights are shielded to ensure that the flies are not killed while still on the glue board.
Are flies attracted to UV light traps?
Yes, flies are attracted to UV light traps. The flies most attracted to this trap include the vinegar fly, flesh fly, and blowfly. Flies tend to be curious creatures, which is why they get easily lured by ultraviolet light. The UV lights help entice them to fly towards it.
Can I use a disposable fly trap indoors?
Disposable indoor fly traps usually have a sticky fly trap glue board which you remove and throw away after it is full of trapped flies. These types of traps do not produce any vapors or odors, making them suitable for indoor use.
Using Bug Zapper Lights to Control Pests
Bug zapper lights also have UV light sources which help to attract insects. However, instead of having bug traps, zapper lights have electric grids that kill the insects.
Do bug zapper lights really work?
Yes. Bug zapper lights work. They are designed to lure insects by emitting light at different wavelengths, including red light and ultraviolet or UV light. The bugs are attracted to ultraviolet rays because they give off heat that helps capture them.
Should I leave my bug zapper on all night?
Yes. You can leave your bug zapper on 24/7 to keep bugs and insects away. By leaving them on throughout the night, you will be controlling the breeding cycle of any flies around. Alternatively, you can let your bug zapper run from dusk to dawn, which is the most recommended time to use a bug zapper. Bugs come out mostly at night, and this is when your bug zapper will have the best effect.
How do I get rid of flies inside my house?
Using a fly trap such as a fruit fly trap or a gnat trap is an ideal way to get rid of flies inside your house. You can use several types of traps depending on the type of fly you want to attract. Traps using UV light bulbs attract fungus gnats, fruit flies, and phorid flies, making them suitable for indoor use.
What is the best bait for a fly trap?
Sugary water is considered the ideal bait. This type of fluid is suitable for attracting phorid flies that are attracted to the smell. The insects feed off this liquid, which eventually kills them. You can also use meat or cheese slicks, which are sticky. The insects get stuck over the trap and cannot escape, making them easy to kill.
Final Thoughts
When looking for an efficient indoor fly trap, Katchy indoor insect trap is all you need. We are renowned for producing the best indoor fly trap that is eco-friendly and effective at luring and trapping pests. Our fly traps allow users to avoid using harmful chemicals or electric zaps for their indoor pest control. Use Katchy indoor fly traps at night for the best results. Get in touch with us today and enjoy a home free from bugs. Visit our blog page for more insights on getting rid of flies within your home.
Contributing Writer: Shaina Summerville