Mosquitoes Spotted In This Country For First Time: But Here’s Why Scientists Are Worried

In a historic first, scientists have confirmed the discovery of wild mosquitoes in Iceland, ending the nation’s long-held reputation as one of the world’s few mosquito-free regions.

The species, identified as Culiseta annulata, was found earlier this month in the small town of Kiðafell, Kjós, about 20–30 kilometres north of Reykjavík. The finding marks a significant ecological milestone and raises questions about how changing global temperatures could be altering even the most isolated environments.

How Discovery Was Made

Local insect enthusiast Björn Hjaltason first spotted the unusual insects in his garden while using wine-soaked ropes to attract moths. Over several nights, he caught three specimens that looked unfamiliar two females and one male. Curious, he shared pictures of the insects in a Facebook group dedicated to Icelandic wildlife.

Entomologist Matthías Alfreðsson from the Natural Science Institute of Iceland later confirmed the find after Hjaltason contacted him. Speaking to CNN, Alfreðsson said, “It is indeed Culiseta annulata, a cold-tolerant mosquito species common in northern Europe.” The discovery marks the first verified presence of mosquitoes in Iceland’s natural environment.

Why This Matters

For decades, Iceland and Antarctica were considered the only mosquito-free places on Earth, largely due to their frigid climates and limited standing water. The appearance of Culiseta annulata breaks that record. “This particular mosquito can survive winters by sheltering in protected places. It doesn’t necessarily mean they’ve established a permanent population yet, but it shows the conditions are now occasionally suitable for them,” Alfreðsson told CNN.

Scientists believe the mosquitoes may have reached Iceland through ships, containers, or imported goods. Some suspect that milder temperatures and longer summers are now helping insects survive in places where they once could not.

Warning Sign of Climate Change?

This year, Iceland experienced record-breaking heat, with temperatures in May soaring above 26°C, far higher than usual. Experts say such warming trends could make the island more hospitable to insects.

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“Even if climate change isn’t the sole cause, rising temperatures make introductions like this more likely,” Colin J. Carlson, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Yale University, told CNN. “It’s a reminder that environmental boundaries we once thought were fixed are beginning to shift.”

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Health authorities emphasise that Culiseta annulata is not a major carrier of tropical diseases such as malaria, dengue, or Zika. However, scientists are urging continued monitoring in the coming months to determine whether the insects can survive Iceland’s winter. If the species establishes a permanent presence, Iceland’s last natural defence against mosquitoes may have finally fallen.