We have all seen moths and other insects flying about our outside lights. It is a popular theory that light attracts moths and other insects. However, researchers now believe they have solved the mystery of why these insects fly endlessly around lights. According to the results of research reported in Nature, the insects that we see swirling around outside lights may actually be trying to fly away from the light. Yes, they are turning their backs on light.
The authors of this research report reached this conclusion employing advanced camera technology. Using this equipment the photos taken of insects flying about sources of light revealed that the insects were actually twisting their bodies to face away from the light source. This behavior is called dorsal light response. When insects display this behavior near a source of light, they become trapped end up continuously swirling around it.
Very interesting, Terry!
I would not have believe that is what insects are doing around lights.