Exploring LED Light Colors: Can LED Lights Repel Bugs and Critters?
We get a lot of questions about using our LED lighting systems while camping and how they might be used to repel bugs and other critters. First, we want to be clear, we do not market our lighting systems for this purpose. Our LED lighting systems — at least for when it comes to awning and under-glow lighting used on RVs — can provide both functional and accent lighting. Beyond their obvious aesthetic appeal as accent lighting, our under-glow lights for example can be extremely helpful when setting up camp in the dark. Illuminating the under-side of your rig at night allows you to see sewer and water hookups as well as monitor the leveling process. The awning light too is functional as every RV needs a light of some kind on the outside. While our LED systems are designed primarily for illumination and style, there's growing interest in how different light colors might influence the behavior of insects and other creatures. Let's dive into what we know — and what it could mean for your next outdoor camping adventure.
INSECTS
First, let's talk bugs. Insects are naturally drawn to light, a behavior called phototaxis, which helps them navigate using sources like the moon. Artificial lights can confuse this instinct, attracting moths, flies, and mosquitoes. Research shows that bugs are most sensitive to shorter wavelengths — think ultraviolet (UV), blue, and cool white lights. Traditional incandescent bulbs, with their broad spectrum and heat output, are bug magnets. LEDs, however, give us more control. Boogey Lights® multi-color LED light systems emit little heat and no UV light (unless specifically designed otherwise), which already makes them less appealing to insects compared to older lighting options.
So, which colors might help keep bugs at bay? Studies suggest that warmer hues — yellow, orange, and red — are less attractive to most insects. Red light, in particular, stands out as a top contender. Many bugs struggle to perceive red wavelengths (around 620-650 nanometers), meaning they're less likely to swarm your campsite when you switch your Boogey Lights® to this setting. Campers tell us they love using red for late-night relaxation — not only does it feel cozy, but it also seems to reduce the moth-and-mosquito mayhem around their RVs. It's not a guaranteed bug shield, but it's a promising perk.
CRITTERS
What about other critters, like snakes or scorpions? This is where things get trickier — and more interesting. Reptiles and arachnids don't rely on light for navigation the way bugs do. Snakes, for instance, use heat and scent to hunt, not color cues. Scorpions, common in desert regions, can fluoresce under UV light, but there's little evidence that colored LEDs alone — red, green, or otherwise — actively repel them. That said, some customers swear by green, amber and even white lights to create a "less inviting" vibe for these critters. While science hasn't fully backed this up, the flexibility of our multi-color LED lighting systems lets you experiment and find what works for your peace of mind.
Rats and mice, common in many camping environments, are nocturnal creatures with vision adapted to low-light conditions. Unlike insects, they don't exhibit strong phototaxis—meaning they're not inherently drawn to or repelled by light alone. However, their behavior can be influenced by light intensity and color. Bright white or blue LEDs (shorter wavelengths, like 400-500 nanometers) can disrupt their circadian rhythms, making them feel exposed or uncomfortable, potentially deterring them from well-lit areas. Studies on lab rats suggest they prefer darker environments, so a bright under-glow in any color might discourage them from scurrying under your RV. That said, warmer colors like red or amber — great for repelling bugs — may not bother them much, as rodents can perceive red light to some extent but aren't strongly deterred by it. Cranking up the brightness in white or cool tones could be a better bet for keeping these critters at a distance, though it's not a foolproof barrier.
Squirrels, on the other hand, are diurnal, so they're active during the day and less likely to be a nighttime campsite nuisance (where species like ground squirrels might burrow nearby). Their vision is more akin to humans', with good color perception, but they're not particularly sensitive to LED colors at night since they're typically resting. If a squirrel's around your RV at dusk or dawn, bright lights — especially white or green — might startle it momentarily, but there's no solid evidence that specific LED colors repel them consistently. Their presence is more tied to food availability than light.
MULTI-COLOR FLEXIBILITY
One advantage of Boogey Lights® is the ability to customize your setup. RV camping conditions vary — some nights are buggy, others bring curious scorpions — so why not tailor your lighting? Switch to red or yellow to deter insects during dinner, then flip to green or white to scan for glowing scorpions (just for fun!). Boogey Lights® multi-color LED lighting systems can be adjusted — not just the color hue but brightness too — so you can play with colors to determine what works best for your environment. It's a practical, stylish way to enhance your campsite while potentially nudging pests elsewhere.
Let's be real: no light color is a magic bullet for repelling all bugs and critters. Environmental factors — temperature, humidity, and nearby water sources — play a bigger role in what shows up at your RV. But the feedback we've gotten from campers is encouraging. Many say that switching away from bright white or blue tones to warmer colors like red or amber noticeably cuts down on flying visitors. Plus, the soft glow of these hues keeps your campsite feeling welcoming without blinding you or your neighbors if you happen to be camping in close quarters — a win-win.
PART OF THE CRITTER DETERRING TOOLKIT
We should also note that our LED systems shine brightest (pun intended) when paired with other critter-deterring strategies. Keep food sealed, clear debris around your RV, and consider natural repellents like citronella for bugs or snake-proofing tips from local experts. Think of your Boogey Lights® as part of the toolkit — not the whole solution. Their primary job is to light up your space with flair, but the color options give you a fun, functional edge to experiment with pest control.
In short, Boogey Lights® LED lighting systems offer more than just a cool look — they're a versatile addition to your camping experience. While we can't promise they'll send every bug, rat, snake, or scorpion packing, the ability to switch to colors like red or yellow could make your nights more comfortable and less creepy-crawly. So, next time you're out camping, crank up the ambiance and test a few hues. We'd love to hear your stories — drop us a line and let us know how your Boogey Lights® light up your adventures!