Many night-flying insects use the moon and stars as points of orientation to help them discern direction. When they see a brighter source of light, such as a light bulb, they mistake it for one of these objects and orient to it, eventually colliding with the light. Lights attract a wide variety of night-flying insects, including most moths and certain beetles, mosquitoes, flies, gnats, and leafhoppers. When many insects become adults during a short period, large numbers may be attracted to lights.
Spray ORTHO Outdoor Insect Fogger or burn citronella candles to temporarily eliminate outdoor flying insects. Spray ORTHO Household Insect Killer--Formula II to control flying insects indoors. Replace white light bulbs with yellow ones; yellow light is less visible to insects and therefore less attractive to them. Use light bulbs of lower wattage, and turn off lights when not needed. Locate outdoor lights at least 25 feet from doors and windows. Install or repair screens to prevent insects from moving indoors. If entertaining outdoors, consider using candles for light. Their lower light intensity is less attractive to insects. For more information on insects and lighting, see the ORTHO book How to Design & Install Outdoor Lighting.