What type of lights are more suitable for outdoor use as they are less attractive to insects?

Sodium vapor lights are particularly suitable for outdoor use when it comes to minimizing attraction to insects. These lights emit a yellowish light that is less visible to many insect species, particularly those that are attracted to ultraviolet (UV) light. Most insects are drawn to blue and UV light wavelengths, which fluorescent and incandescent lights tend to emit more prominently. Therefore, sodium vapor lights, with their longer wavelengths, present less of a lure for insects, making them a practical choice for outdoor illumination without the irritation of attracting unwanted pests.

In contrast, fluorescent lights often produce a spectrum that can attract insects due to their UV emissions. LED lights can vary in design, but many emit higher levels of blue light which can also attract certain insects. Incandescent lights, although they provide warm illumination, typically produce a spectrum that includes UV and blue light, further increasing their attractiveness to insects. This characteristic makes sodium vapor lights the preferred choice for outdoor environments where minimizing insect attraction is desired.