Distinguishing native and invasive mosquitoes
Find information about the 36 species of mosquito found in the UK, as well as the species which are imported to the UK through international travel and climate change.
Applies to England
Native mosquitoes in the UK
In the UK, there are 36 mosquito species. Of these, a handful of species are associated with nuisance biting reports, and a few species have been implicated as vectors for disease transmission in other countries, including West Nile Virus, and Usutu. Therefore, it is important for us to have an understanding of their distribution across the UK.
As a result of changes in climate, the distribution of our native species, along with their seasonality, may change, with species previously thought to occupy only the warmest regions, being found in more northerly areas. Many native species will exploit summer flooding, therefore, changes in rainfall may impact the distribution and seasonality of species, potentially opening up new locations for them to exploit.
UKHSA Medical Entomology run surveillance and research projects for native mosquitoes. More information can be found under the Monitoring and Surveillance section.
Invasive mosquito species
Globally, there are approximately 3,600 species of mosquitoes. The UK is home to 36 native mosquito species, meaning they complete their entire lifecycle within the country.
However, due to international travel and climate change, some mosquito species have spread beyond their traditional ranges and established themselves in new areas. When these species have negative social, public health, or economic consequences, they are classified as invasive species. One of the most significant invasive mosquitoes for UK public health is Aedes albopictus, commonly known as the tiger mosquito.
Main resources for native and invasive mosquitoes:
- Nationwide mosquito survey
- Native mosquitoes species profiles
- Invasive mosquito surveillance
- Invasive mosquitoes species profiles
- National contingency plan for invasive mosquito
Additional resources: