Wasps are common insects, often encountered outdoors. Their interaction with light sources is a frequent question. Understanding whether wasps are attracted to light can clarify their presence and inform coexistence strategies.
Do Wasps Seek Out Light?
Most common wasp species, such as yellow jackets and paper wasps, are primarily active during the day. As diurnal insects, they do not exhibit a strong, inherent attraction to artificial light sources in the same way that many nocturnal insects, like moths, do. While it is possible to observe wasps near lights, this presence is often incidental or driven by factors other than the light itself.
Wasps may be drawn to areas around lights if those areas also contain their primary attractants, such as sugary foods, protein sources, or other insects that are attracted to light. For instance, a porch light might attract smaller insects, which then become a food source for predatory wasps. Some species, like European hornets and certain tropical paper wasps, can exhibit activity at night and may be drawn to artificial light, temporarily disrupting their usual rest cycles.
The Science Behind Wasp Light Responses
The behavior of insects in response to light is known as phototaxis, which can be positive (attraction) or negative (repulsion). Wasps’ visual systems are adapted for navigation and foraging in natural daylight conditions. Their reliance on natural light cycles, particularly polarized sunlight, guides their movements and helps them locate nests and food sources.
Wasp eyes, like those of other insects, are compound eyes, designed for detecting movement and patterns. While some nocturnal wasp species have evolved adaptations, such as larger eyes and increased optical sensitivity, to navigate in dim light, the majority of common wasps lack this specialized night vision. Artificial light, especially at night, often differs significantly from natural light in terms of wavelength and intensity, and these characteristics typically do not appeal to the visual systems of most diurnal wasps.
Using Light to Manage Wasp Encounters
Understanding that most wasps are not strongly attracted to artificial light provides practical insights for managing encounters. Unlike many other flying insects, wasps are not effectively controlled by devices like bug zappers, which primarily rely on light attraction. Bug zappers may kill some wasps, but they are not a targeted solution, as wasps are more drawn to food and protein than to light.
Leaving outdoor lights on at night will not draw wasps indoors or significantly increase their presence. If wasps are observed near lights, it is often due to the presence of other insects, food, or warmth in the area. To minimize wasp activity around illuminated outdoor spaces, focus on removing other attractants, such as uncovered food or sugary drinks, rather than altering light usage.