Minnesota mosquito and tick predictions for 2026
Mosquito larvae. Photo courtesy of the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD). (Supplied)
(FOX 9) - Minnesota officials have shared their predictions for mosquitoes, ticks and black flies for 2026.
Mosquito predictions
What they're saying:
The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District (MMCD) has offered predictions on what this summer will look like for mosquitoes, ticks and black flies.
MMCD predicts that cattail mosquitoes will return this summer, and it will be another high year for the insect. They expect a mid-summer surge of cattail mosquitoes in July.
Despite that, the Twin Cities could see a slower start to mosquito season due to low precipitation this year. However, heavy rainfall in April could change that.
Cattail mosquitoes numbers were lower than expected last year, due to treatment by MMCD.
Ticks in MN have increased presence of Lyme disease
Dig deeper:
Deer ticks come out whenever the temperature is above freezing.
MMCD says deer tick nymphs may have a high prevalence of Lyme disease this year, and officials are urging the public to take precautions, especially in May and June, when they are the most common.
Officials say to wear light-colored clothes, put on bug spray and do tick checks after being outside.
Black flies in MN
Local perspective:
Black flies are expected to stay normal, unless there is heavy rain in April.
What's next:
MMCD is expected to begin aerial treatments as early as April 13.
The Source: A press release from the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District.