It’s a common belief that mosquitoes are attracted to light. That’s why many mosquito-repellent products like outdoor bug zappers use special light bulbs marketed as deterrents. It’s also why many people will turn the lights off outdoors to avoid mosquito bites. But are mosquitoes really attracted to light? If not, what are mosquitoes attracted to? Learn more about mosquito behavior to help keep them away from your living space.
Are Mosquitoes Attracted to Light?
No, mosquitoes are not attracted to the light like other types of bugs. Mosquitoes usually demonstrate negative phototaxis, which means they tend to avoid light. They may use light to navigate their surroundings, but mosquitoes are attracted to other elements. In fact, mosquitoes are often more active from dusk to dawn and when the air is calm.
What Attracts Mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes are mainly attracted to elements that signal food. Since blood is their primary food source and way of living, they will look for signs that people or animals are close. Mosquitoes will utilize a variety of receptors, including carbon dioxide, odorant, ionotropic, and gustatory receptors, to detect carbon dioxide and certain smells. Mosquitoes’ reliance on chemical and thermal cues to find humans and animals explains why light is not a significant attractant, setting them apart from light-oriented bugs like moths and beetles.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
The carbon dioxide we exhale is one of the main things that attracts mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are extremely sensitive and attracted to carbon dioxide naturally released by humans and animals when we breathe. They can find possible hosts by using their ability to sense carbon dioxide up to 50 yards away. It’s even more appealing when CO2 levels are higher, such as during physical activity or in a crowd.
Scent and Body Odors
Mosquitoes are drawn to certain body scents that indicate blood is near, including the substances in perspiration, skin germs, and natural oils. Certain people may be more appealing to mosquitoes than others due to the lactic acid, ammonia, and other substances that the skin produces. This can also happen for those who eat bananas, avocados, and other potassium-rich foods that promote lactic acid production.
Body Heat
Additionally, the heat from our bodies attracts mosquitoes. Body heat helps them focus on carbon dioxide after they’ve located it. That’s why people who just worked out or who are on the warmer side tend to draw more mosquitoes. Mosquitoes have cooling and heating cells that allow them to identify these temperature differences.
Are Mosquito Lights Effective?
While mosquito lights and bug zappers may kill some mosquitoes, they are not an effective solution for fully controlling mosquito populations. These devices tend to draw in other potentially beneficial insects and leave mosquitoes buzzing around your home. To truly get rid of them, it's essential to focus on prevention strategies like eliminating breeding sites and using targeted methods like professional mosquito spraying.
How to Reduce Mosquito Attraction
To reduce mosquito attraction around your home, eliminate standing water, which is where they thrive. This can include draining flower pots, changing bird baths, addressing clogged gutters, and refreshing your pet’s water. Wear light-colored, long-sleeved clothing during peak hours at dawn and dusk, and apply repellents when spending time outdoors. Plant marigolds, citronella, and lavender, and keep your yard tidy by removing debris and mowing the grass regularly. To help keep mosquitoes out of your home, install tight-fitting screens on windows and doors.
Get Rid of Pesky Mosquitos with Maintenance and Effective Pest Control
In addition to basic ways of deterring mosquitoes, many homeowners benefit from seeking professional mosquito control services. Our Mosquito Joe® pest control services will effectively identify and target these pests so you can enjoy the outdoors again. We offer traditional mosquito barrier sprays that will address hot spots in your yard and prevent those biters from coming back. We also have eco-friendly options that utilize essential oils for effective prevention. You can also consider our mosquito traps and automated misting systems.
We offer free inspections and free estimates to help you understand potential mosquito control solutions. Our work is backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise® and our own guarantee to ensure you’re happy.
Contact us today to request a free quote and explore your options for a bite-free property from a locally owned and operated company you can trust!
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mosquito Joe is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact your local Mosquito Joe location for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
