Queen's University Belfast has recorded unprecedented mosquito activity across Northern Ireland this summer, with steady public reports via MosquitoNI helping to pinpoint nuisance species and local hotspots such as Ballykelly.

Researchers from the School of Biological Sciences are conducting systematic surveys across a range of urban and rural habitats. In Ballykelly, Limavady—an area previously highlighted for nuisance biting—the team identified wetlands, including shore salt marsh, as likely breeding grounds. A short survey showed mosquitoes moving from the marsh into other parts of the village, such as nearby woodlands, to bite.

While mosquitoes are part of the natural ecosystem, they can pose health risks. Vector-borne diseases cause more than 700,000 deaths globally each year, with mosquitoes responsible for the greatest share. Environmental degradation linked to urbanisation, agricultural intensification and climate change, along with invasive species, is shifting the distribution, abundance and behaviour of vector mosquitoes and their viruses, elevating pathogen risks.

To improve regional knowledge and preparedness, Queen's launched MosquitoNI earlier this year—the first public mosquito reporting system in the country. Since then, consistent engagement from residents has enabled the identification of nuisance locations and species. Commenting on the importance of the scheme, Dr Ross Cuthbert from the School of Biological Sciences at Queen's said: "Unfortunately, it is just physically impossible for us monitor everywhere in NI for potential nuisance species. So, the information we gather from MosquitoNI is extremely valuable to inform our sampling and understandings. We have recently reactively sampled apparent 'hotspot' sites, such as Ballykelly, and we would urge people to continue to use the reporting system to allow us to determine additional areas of activity."

Although no mosquito-borne diseases have been detected on the island of Ireland, the team's collections include species known to transmit diseases elsewhere, underscoring overlooked risks in Northern Ireland.

Ross added: "Mosquitoes are generally overlooked here, and in many other temperate areas worldwide. The cooler climate on the island of Ireland has been traditionally thought to limit mosquito abundance and stifle disease risk. However, previous research at Queen's found surprisingly high numbers of mosquitoes across NI. Last year, thousands of mosquitoes were collected in specialised traps set around various wetlands and urban sites where mosquitoes breed. So far, around 20 different species have been found across the island of Ireland."

The researchers are again sampling widely across Northern Ireland in 2026 and have already collected thousands of adult and larval mosquitoes, while uncovering new potential species for the region.

They are calling for continued public support to extend geographic coverage and fill blind spots. By reporting sightings and uploading photographs, residents can help identify potential hotspots, map species distribution and boost local involvement.

More information, including how to submit reports, is available at www.mosquitoni.com.