Stay Bite-Free: Colors To Avoid Wearing That Attract Mosquitoes
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a relaxing day in your backyard, or tending to your garden, remember to protect yourself from pesky pests this summer. Many of us know that mosquitoes are a nuisance that can disrupt outdoor activities. They can also pose health risks due to their ability to transmit diseases. While factors like certain scents and wet and humid environments contribute to mosquito attraction, it might come as a surprise that colors can also play a role.
According to a study by the University of Washington, Professor Jeffrey Riffell and his team discovered something fascinating. When mosquitoes catch a whiff of certain compounds, like carbon dioxide from our breath, it triggers their eyes to search for particular colors and visual patterns. These bugs associate those signals with a potential host.
Choose your colors wisely.
Best Life shared what colors to avoid wearing outside if you’re worried about mosquito bites. Most people know that wearing black in the summertime can increase your body temperature because it absorbs light and converts it to heat. However, many people are unaware that black clothing also acts as a major attraction for mosquitoes.
David Price, ACE, director of technical services and associate certified entomologist at Mosquito Joe, explained to Best Life that while mosquitoes don’t actually see colors, they see contrasts in the light spectrum, and black creates more contrast and absorbs more heat. Apparently, the color black has a longer wavelength, so after smelling carbon dioxide, mosquitoes will gravitate toward these hues more.
The study also said that Aegypti mosquitoes, which are known to carry viruses like Zika, have a strong attraction to the color cyan. This preference is due to cyan’s dominant wavelength, which creates a distinctive silhouette that helps mosquitoes identify potential meals, even when the host is moving.
In another study, researchers revealed an interesting fact about yellow fever mosquitoes (Aedes aegypti) and their response to carbon dioxide, a gas that humans naturally exhale. Surprisingly, these mosquitoes exhibited an increased sensitivity to certain colors, such as red, orange, black, and cyan, which are predominantly long-wavelength visual cues. They were observed to fly faster and linger longer around objects of these colors.
Curious about which colors you should steer clear of when it comes to mosquito attraction? See what other colors attract mosquitoes here.
12 Types Of People You'll Definitely See At A Barbecue
The Grill Guru
The master of the grill. The Grill Guru confidently flips burgers and searing juicy steaks, armed with secret seasonings and a passion for grilling. The grill guru is so passionate that they probably won’t let you near the grill. And if they do, prepare to be schooled on how to properly grill.
The Backyard Athlete
Prepare to witness the self-proclaimed sports superstar of the barbecue. This person takes every opportunity to showcase their athletic ability in the simplest of backyard games. Whether it’s a casual game of horseshoes or a friendly round of cornhole, they approach it with a level of intensity that rivals professional athletes. They may not have a trophy cabinet to show off, but their exaggerated victory celebrations and constant reminders of their “unbeatable” skills make them an, um, “entertaining” addition to the barbecue festivities. You’ll pretty much be exhausted by the time their competitive edge comes down.
The Plate-Stacker
This person is notorious for loading their plate with excessive food, showing no restraint when it comes to enjoying the barbecue feast. It’s okay, dude, the food isn’t going anywhere.
The Snack Seeker
A relentless snacker, always on the hunt for the tastiest pre-grill treats, conquering every chip, dip, and appetizer in sight. They may even snag a bite or two from the food fresh off the grill.
The Designated Diner
The person who possesses the magical ability to remain firmly planted in their seat while effortlessly acquiring a full plate of food. With impeccable timing and a keen eye, they navigate the food line from their comfortable spot, expertly signaling for others to fetch them their food. Their plate always seems to be mysteriously overflowing with an assortment of meats, sides, and desserts, as if they have a secret connection to the kitchen.
The Chillaxer
There is almost always one person who has perfected the art of unwinding and chilling out. They can be found in their designated relaxation spot, whether it’s a hammock, a comfortable lawn chair, or a cozy nook with a book. With a serene smile on their face, they embody a sense of tranquility, fully immersing themselves in the laid-back ambiance of the barbecue.
The Makeshift Bartender
This person is always on the lookout for empty glasses, constantly checking if anyone else would like another beer, showcasing their generous and attentive nature. They effortlessly navigate between guests, effortlessly balancing their own glass while refilling others, ensuring that everyone’s drink preferences are catered to. Their dedication to keeping the drinks flowing is unmatched. Need a refill? Well, they’ve got you covered.
The Aspiring DJ
This person seizes every opportunity to take control of the music, eager to showcase their DJ skills and create a vibrant atmosphere at the barbecue. Leave it to this person to connect to the Bluetooth speaker without being asked. Sometimes, it may actually be something you want to hear.
The Party Energizer
The life of the party, spreading laughter and good vibes, leading impromptu dance-offs, and keeping the BBQ lively with their endless repertoire of jokes and stories. Their big personality and natural charisma captivates everyone around them. Typically, this person is the loudest at the barbecue.
The Perpetual Guest
This person consistently shows up empty-handed, relying on the generosity and preparations of others without contributing any food, drinks, or supplies to the barbecue gathering. One thing they do remember to bring is their appetite.
The Vegan Advocate
With a strong belief in their dietary choices, they proudly advocate for plant-based living. While their commitment to a vegan lifestyle is commendable, their enthusiasm can sometimes come across as obnoxious. They can’t resist taking every opportunity to remind everyone about the ethical, environmental, and health benefits of a vegan lifestyle. Whether it’s passionately discussing the horrors of factory farming or offering unsolicited advice on meat alternatives, they can sometimes become overbearing.
The Constant Cleaner
There’s always one person dedicated to keeping the barbecue area spotless. Armed with cleaning supplies and an unwavering commitment to tidiness, they ensure that every surface is sparkling clean. It’s best to just step back and let them do their thing.
