Summer evenings without mosquitoes: Lights on or off?

On summer evenings, there are often mosquitoes around that can bite and be a nuisance. We’ve all been there: you go inside covered in mosquito bites, or you wake up the next day with a whole bunch of mosquito bumps and a lot of itching… It’s often said that you should leave the lights off so you don’t attract mosquitoes and are therefore less likely to get bitten. But is this actually true?

Are mosquitoes attracted to light?

Fact or Myth: Are Mosquitoes Really Attracted to Light? There is a persistent myth that mosquitoes are primarily attracted to lights in the evening. However, this is only half the truth. Biting mosquitoes, such as the notorious females that need blood to lay their eggs, are not primarily attracted to light. Their hunting behavior is mainly driven by odors such as carbon dioxide and human body odors.

Why Turning Off the Light Sometimes Helps

Although light isn't the main cause of mosquito bites, other insects and non-biting mosquitoes can be attracted to lamps and lighting. So, turning off unnecessary lights can reduce the number of insects in your immediate surroundings. This can be especially helpful when you’re outside and want to avoid being constantly bothered by all kinds of flying pests.

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

So what can you do to prevent mosquito bites? Here are some proven measures you can take:

• Apply mosquito repellents containing DEET or other recommended ingredients to exposed skin to keep mosquitoes away.

• Wear long sleeves and pants, especially at dusk and at night, when mosquitoes are most active.

• Install window screens and mosquito netting to keep mosquitoes from getting into your home.

• Make sure there is no standing water nearby, as this serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Do you have a small pond? If so, create movement in the water with a fountain or change the water regularly.

So, the next time you wonder if it’s worth turning off the lights to keep mosquitoes away, keep in mind that it may be part of the solution, but it certainly isn’t the whole solution—especially not when it comes to biting mosquitoes in particular. A combination of mosquito repellent, protective clothing, window screens, and avoiding standing water will help you enjoy your summer evenings without any bother. So, turn off the lights (or don’t), grab your mosquito repellent, and enjoy a summer without that buzzing in your ear!