Flies, moths, and many other insects are attracted toward light, because of this common behavior we assume that cockroaches also might be attracted to light.
However, this is not true, their case is completely opposite. Lets understand this, I am sure this will also give you a chance to learn a lot about cockroach behavior.
The Short Answer: No, Most Cockroaches Avoid Light
Cockroaches avoid the light actively because they are photophobic. That is why they prefer night time to roam around the house rather during the day time.
Interesting Fact: Cockroaches find light as a threat signal regarding presence of any predator or vulnerability.
Cockroaches prefer darkness almost during its entire life like they breed in dark spaces, find dark places to hide themselves like gaps, and even feed at night. It is hard wire in their instinct that they have to run as soon as their exposure happen to any kind of light.
So Why Do People Sometimes See Cockroaches Near Lights?
It usually happens in winter season, because cockroaches are cold blooded insects, so to get warming effect cockroaches absolutely attracted to the light. This is the reason you somehow see a cockroach near a light source.
My Opinion: There is also a chance that there may be food crumbs near the light so it clearly means cockroaches are there because of the food not because of the light.
Are Any Cockroaches Actually Attracted to Light?
Yes — Asian cockroach (Blattella asahinai) are positively phototactic. Which means they are attracted to lights. These are outdoors specie, however enter the home through windows and always fly toward light. This specie is common in southeastern United States.
Why Does This Distinction Matter?
You have to learn this distinction because Asian cockroaches are outdoor species and German cockroaches are indoor. If you learn the difference you can adopt specific treatment method to get rid of them.
Suggestion: For Asian cockroaches, spray near the windows and try to keep your windows closed. For German cockroaches, make sure there are no food particles or source of humidity in the house especially in the darker areas.
Does Darkness Attract Cockroaches?
No darkness alone is not the reason there are other reasons as well that actually attract cockroaches to the house.
The darkness is cherry on the top for them that give them a sense of safety because they can move freely without chances to be seen by anyone. Most significant attraction is food crumbs, followed by food, shelter, and the warmth.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are cockroaches attracted to light? | No |
| What are they? | Photophobic |
| Why might you see them near lamps? | Because of warmth and food |
| Are any species attracted to light? | The Asian cockroach |
| Does keeping lights on deter roaches? | No |
| What actually attracts cockroaches? | Shelter, food, warmth, and moisture |
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