Iceland Confirms First-Ever Mosquitoes

Overview

• Three specimens—two females and one male—were collected about 30 km north of Reykjavík near Kiðafell on sugar-and-wine ‘wine ropes’ used to attract moths.
• The Institute of Natural History of Iceland confirmed the species as Culiseta annulata, with identification by entomologist Matthias Alfredsson.
• The find followed a citizen report by Björn Hjaltason, who submitted the insects for laboratory analysis.
• Authorities say sustained monitoring next spring will determine whether a breeding population is present or if the insects were a transient arrival.
• Iceland had long been considered free of mosquitoes; experts cite possible introduction via ships or containers and note the species’ ability to overwinter in cold conditions as well as increasing climate suitability.