Why Are Moths Attracted to Light?

We've all heard the age-old saying of something being drawn to something else "like a moth to a flame" - but what does it really mean?  Well, let's first get something straight...

What's the Difference between Butterflies and Moths?

While fundamentally quite similar, there are a number of differences between butterflies and moths that can be spotted.  The clearest of these differences is in their antennae.  Butterflies are observed to have thin antennae with small spheres sitting on the end; moths, on the other hand, have feathery, rounded antennae.

Another generalized difference can be observed in the wings of butterflies and moths.  Butterflies are widely known to exhibit bright, vibrant colors and designs in their wings.  Moths commonly have a series of earthy and monochromatic colors and designs - similarly as elaborate - just usually not as flashy.

Lastly, when idling, moths will rest their wings close to their body like a blanket or tent.  Butterflies usually hold them high.

Fun fact!

Butterflies were named 'butterflies' because of their excrement - it has the appearance of gooey, melted butter.

...Just don't put it on your popcorn. :o

Where Can Moths Be Found?

Most moths are nocturnal and can only be found moving about at nighttime.  That said, they can be found just about anywhere in the world.

The brown house moth is the most common moth found in the United States; but more densely populates Britain.  Unfortunately, these moths are quite destructive and are known to feed on various household items, such as clothes, wooden objects, and food.

Due to their generally nocturnal presence, moths prefer to stay away in dark areas of buildings like basements, attics, and garages... Much like my co-writer, Jeremiah Evavold.

What Are the Different Kinds of Moths?

There are estimated to be roughly 160,000 different kinds of moths in the world.

The Atlas Moth (Attacus Atlas) is the largest moth of the modern world with a wingspan measuring at almost 30cm (a bit larger than the length of a human hand).  The smallest moth is the Stigmella Maya, which can be found in Mexico, and measures at roughly 1.2mm - hardly visible - and while flying, this little guy could very easily be mistaken for a piece of dust or a mosquito.

Why Are Moths Attracted to Light?

Unfortunately, we don't actually know.

How's that for a let down?

You just spent all this time reading this blog and hoping for an answer to a question you didn't realize you had, and that's the best I can do...

That said, we have some theories and hypothetical reasons, and those are as follows:

The first of the theories has to do with a phenomenon known as "Celestial Orientation".  In this circumstance, a moth will rely on a steady celestial light source such as the moon for clear navigation.  Without realization that it may be in pursuit of another, less reliable light source, the moth instinctively continues to follow other forms of light when they are presented, like light bulbs, candles and fire.

Unfortunately, studies have shown that the impedance of other lights like these has led to a decline in the effectiveness of a moth's nighttime pollination responsibilities, and has even led to a decrease in overall moth population.  Light pollution has become an increasingly more damaging oversight of our society, and its disruption has bled out into the lives of many different species of our planet, like sea turtles.

By fighting light pollution with Dark Sky Compliant lighting, we can work together to care better for our planet and all of its inhabitants.

Read More About Light Pollution! Here's How Light Pollution Affects Sea Turtles. Read Now!