Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What is the primary concern when inspecting exterior lights?

1. Attracting pets

2. Nocturnal flying insects

3. Birds nesting

4. Rodent sighting

The correct answer is: Nocturnal flying insects

The primary concern when inspecting exterior lights is the attraction of nocturnal flying insects. Exterior lighting can draw various species of insects, particularly those that are active at night, such as moths and beetles. These nocturnal insects are often attracted to light sources for navigation purposes, mistakenly perceiving them as natural sources of light, such as the moon. This phenomenon plays a crucial role in pest management as the presence of these insects can indicate potential infestations. Moreover, many flying insects that congregate around lights can become prey for other pests, such as spiders and predatory insects, potentially leading to an imbalance in the local ecosystem and affecting the pest management strategies employed. While the presence of pets, birds, or rodents near lights may be noteworthy, they are secondary concerns compared to the direct impact that nocturnal flying insects have on pest populations and subsequent pest control measures. Therefore, addressing the attraction of flying insects around exterior lights is essential for effective pest management practices.