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The Miami Valley has a diverse collection of wildlife. Five Rivers MetroParks naturalists and conservation staff members give you a glimpse into the lives of these creatures. Use these tips and tricks to discover wildlife at a MetroPark or right in your own backyard.

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Home > Blogs > Birds and Butterflies > Archives > 2008 > November > 03 > Entry

Why are Moths Attracted to Light?

By Beth Burke | Monday, November 3, 2008, 11:08 AM

There are several interesting theories to why a moth is drawn to light. One possibility is that a moth uses the light from the moon to help with migration. That use of light would be similar to how birds or butterflies may use the sun to aid in their migration. But what about the moths that don’t migrate? The attraction to the light may be an instinctive response. Long ago before there was artificial light the moth may have flown up toward the light from the moon as a way to get away from danger. Now with electricity, street lights and porch lights could be a distraction to the moth. The moths may still be using these ancient instincts to help them, but as we know that attraction to light may be their demise.

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