Why are moths attracted to lights? Science may finally have an answer

Insect flight paths were filmed at night using hi-res and infrared technology with surprising results

From the Bhagavad Gita to the Merchant of Venice, storytellers have warned of the unappealing fate awaiting those who are drawn like a moth to a flame.

Despite the rich history of the baffling behaviour, the science of why insects gather around lights at night has never been nailed down. Popular theories propose that moths navigate by the moon and mistake lamps for moonlight, or that the insects fly towards light to escape imminent danger.