Mosquitoes in Iceland have been confirmed for the first time after three specimens were identified in Kiðafell, Kjós, in mid‑October 2025, a finding that scientists link to Arctic warming and Iceland’s unusually fast temperature rise.
The Natural Science Institute of Iceland (Náttúrufræðistofnun Íslands, NATT) verified the insects as Culiseta annulata. While there is no evidence of an established population, the discovery highlights how a changing climate is reshaping the North.
Citizen science in Kjós: first records and verification
A local observer reported unusual insects caught on red‑wine ropes used to attract moths between 16 and 18 October. He submitted the samples to NATT, which confirmed three mosquitoes—two females and one male—found at Kiðafell, Kjós, north of Reykjavík.
The institute notes that it is uncertain whether the species has settled permanently in Iceland and is encouraging the public to report further sightings to map any presence across the island.
What is Arctic amplification and why Iceland warms faster
Iceland sits on the edge of the Arctic, where amplified warming is well documented. As sea ice and seasonal snow retreat, darker ocean and land surfaces absorb more solar energy, reinforcing warming.
In cold, stable atmospheres, heat and moisture also tend to be trapped near the surface, further raising temperatures. These combined mechanisms shorten winters and lengthen the insect‑friendly season, allowing species once excluded by cold to survive and disperse.
Culiseta annulata and overwintering in cold climates
The identified species, Culiseta annulata, is widespread in northern Europe and the British Isles. It is cold‑tolerant and typically overwinters as an adult, sheltering in barns, basements and outbuildings.
The mosquito bites but is not known as a disease vector in Icelandic or Nordic conditions. Its ability to persist through winter makes it a plausible early coloniser in warming high latitudes.
Health risks: low for now, but warming reshapes vectors
Public‑health risk in Iceland is low at this stage: only three specimens were found and no pathogens are associated with the species locally
However, warmer winters and increased transport links can open corridors for invasive vectors—such as the Asian tiger mosquito—elsewhere in Europe. Icelandic authorities will track reports to assess whether seasonal incursions evolve into stable populations.
What remains unknown
There is no confirmation that mosquitoes have established themselves in Iceland, nor clarity on how the three specimens arrived—freight is one possibility. The coming winters will indicate whether the species can persist unaided. NÍ’s mapping effort will be key to determine distribution and seasonal dynamics.
The first confirmed mosquitoes in Iceland are a small but telling signal of climate‑driven change at high latitudes. Further monitoring will show whether this is a one‑off incursion or the beginning of a new reality for Iceland and the wider Arctic‑Nordic region.
