Mosquitoes spotted in Iceland for first time in history: Now only one place on earth remains mosquito-free

Three mosquitoes have been spotted in Iceland for the first time. While previously this country has been completely mosquito-free. Björn Hjaltason, a resident of the town of Kjös, spotted these mosquitoes in his garden. He said he immediately recognized that these insects were something different, unlike anything he had seen before. The Icelandic Institute of Natural History later confirmed that these mosquitoes belonged to the Culiseta annulata species, one of only a few mosquito species that can survive in winter.

Now, only one place in the world is mosquito-free.

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Iceland is a very cold country. Insects like mosquitoes cannot survive in the cold because they are cold-blooded creatures. They cannot maintain their body temperature, so they need a warm environment. Mosquitoes live comfortably in warm countries, lay eggs, and bite humans. However, Iceland's cold weather was previously unsuitable for them. However, climate change has provided favorable temperatures for mosquitoes.

Why have mosquitoes arrived now?

Scientists say it's unclear how mosquitoes reached Iceland, but global warming is believed to be the primary cause. Iceland is experiencing heat. Reports indicate that Iceland's temperature is rising four times faster than other countries in the Northern Hemisphere. In May 2025, many parts experienced temperatures above 20°C for 10 consecutive days. 26.6°C was recorded at Eglisstadir Airport, the hottest day of May. The perfect environment for mosquitoes, heat and humidity, has now been created.

How do mosquitoes benefit from heat?

Heat helps mosquito eggs hatch faster and larvae grow faster. Female mosquitoes bite humans more often because blood is digested faster. A 2020 study found that temperatures between 10 and 35°C and humidity above 42% are the best breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Where is the mosquito-free place now?

Now that mosquitoes have arrived in Iceland, Antarctica remains the only mosquito-free region in the world. It is extremely cold there, and the water is frozen. Therefore, mosquitoes have no place to lay eggs or survive there.

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