Do LED Lights Attract Spiders? Let's Find Out The Truth​

Many people have doubts: Do LED lights attract spiders? The connection between light, insects, and spiders sparks curiosity because of its impact on our living spaces. 

In this article, we’ll explore spider habits, insect behaviour around light, and the science behind LED lighting. They will provide a comprehensive answer.

(Considering that some visitors may be afraid of spiders, this article uses illustrations instead, so you can read it with confidence.)

Understanding Spider Habits: Why Light Matters

Spiders are fascinating creatures with unique characteristics, especially regarding their interaction with light. Unlike humans and many animals, spiders have simple eyes that lack lenses and the ability to focus. This limitation means light is not attractive to spiders like other creatures might be. They generally prefer dark, damp environments where they feel safe.

However, their web-building behaviour tells a different story.

Spiders often construct their webs in areas exposed to light or wind. Why? The answer lies in their primary food source: insects.

Light attracts many nocturnal insects, creating a hunting hotspot for spiders. Therefore, while spiders themselves may not seek out light, they are carpetbag hunters and build webs where insects are plentiful.

This raises the question: Do certain types of light indirectly attract spiders by drawing in insects? To answer that, we need to examine how different types of lighting influence insect activity.

The Role of Light in Attracting Insects

Insects, particularly those active at night, are naturally drawn to light sources. This phenomenon, known as phototaxis, varies depending on the type of light emitted. At the AAAS (American Association for the Advancement of Science)meeting, a study clarified how various lighting types impact insect attraction. Researchers compared six different light sources, including:

· Incandescent bulbs

· Cool-toned LED lights

· Warm-toned LED lights

· Yellow “bug lights”

The experiment, conducted in a community in Virginia, involved setting up traps fitted with these lights during the summer. Over the study period, researchers captured and analyzed 8,887 insects and spiders. Here’s what they discovered:

1. Incandescent Lights: The worst offenders, attracting an average of eight insects per hour.

2. Cool-Toned LED Lights: Moderately attractive to insects, but less so than incandescent bulbs.

3. Warm-Toned LED Lights & Bug Lights: They are the least appealing, attracting merely around 4.5 insects per hour.

The results clearly show that traditional incandescent bulbs are far more attractive to insects. The modern LED lights, especially the warm-toned LEDs and yellow bug lights are the least appealing.

Why LED Lights Attract Fewer Insects

To understand why LED lights are less appealing to insects, we need to explore their technological differences.

1. No Infrared or Ultraviolet Radiation

Traditional lighting, such as incandescent and fluorescent lamps, emits ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiation. These wavelengths are highly attractive to many insects. LED lights, on the other hand, convert electrical energy directly into light energy without producing significant UV or IR radiation.

2. Specific Wavelengths

LED lights primarily emit light in two wavelengths: a blue chip and a yellow phosphor, which combine to produce white light. This spectral composition is less attractive to insects compared to the broader light spectrum emitted by incandescent and fluorescent lights.

3. Minimal Heat Emission

Another factor is thermal light. Incandescent bulbs emit significant heat, which can attract heat-seeking insects. LED lights operate at much cooler temperatures, further reducing their appeal.

These unique characteristics of LED lights make them a more insect-friendly option. And because fewer insects are drawn to LED lights, the likelihood of spiders gathering around them is naturally reduced.

Do LED Lights Attract Spiders? The Answer Explained

After understanding spider habits and insect behaviour around different lights, we can confidently answer the question: Do LED lights attract spiders?

The answer is no—at least, not directly. Spiders themselves are not drawn to LED lights, and because LED lights attract significantly fewer insects than traditional bulbs, the chances of spiders building webs near LED lights are much lower.

However, it’s important to note that spiders may still appear near any light source if there are sufficient insects in the vicinity. But by choosing warm-toned LED lights or yellow bug lights, you can greatly minimize this possibility.

Benefits of Choosing LED Lights

Switching to LED lighting isn’t just about reducing the attraction of insects and spiders. Here are some additional advantages:

1. Energy Efficiency: LED lights consume significantly less electricity compared to incandescent or fluorescent bulbs.

2. Durability: LEDs have a longer lifespan, saving you money on replacements.

3. Eco-Friendly: With no mercury or harmful emissions, LEDs are a greener lighting option.

4. Versatility: Available in various colours and intensities, LED lights can suit any environment.

Tips: How to Minimize Spiders and Insects Around Your Home

If you want to keep insects and spiders at bay, here are some practical tips:

1. Choose Warm-Toned LED Lights or Yellow Bug Lights

These lights are less attractive to insects, reducing the likelihood of spiders setting up webs.

2. Seal Entry Points

Check for cracks, gaps, or other openings in walls, windows, and doors where insects and spiders can enter.

3. Reduce Outdoor Lighting

If possible, limit outdoor lighting at night or use motion-sensor lights to minimize continuous attraction for insects.

4. Keep Your Space Clean

Regularly clean and declutter areas where spiders might build webs, such as corners, basements, and outdoor eaves.