Mosquito Season in Missoula: What to Expect and How to Prepare in 2025

As the dog and I went for a walk this last weekend down by the Bitterroot River, we noticed how high and fast the water was flowing. We also found some mud puddles and some standing water. Ok, to be honest the dog found the mud puddles.  

With temperatures in the 80s and the high-water level, it got me thinking that it will only be a matter of time before mosquitoes will be out. For those that don’t know, mosquitoes are the deadliest animal on the planet. They are estimated to kill more than a million people yearly.  

Missoula May See More Mosquitoes in 2025

Last year, mosquitoes in the Missoula and Lolo area weren’t that bad. This year it could be a different story. I spoke with Layne Von Lanken, the Lolo Mosquito District Coordinator about what we might expect this mosquito season. Even though it is early in the season, there is a chance we can see more mosquitoes this year.  

Von Lanken said:

It's reasonable to anticipate an increase in mosquito activity this season. This expectation is based on higher-than-average snowpack levels and increased runoff compared to the spring of 2024. It is likely that certain areas, which remained dry last season due to limited runoff are now rewetting. 

Mosquito eggs can remain dormant for multiple seasons as long as they remain dry. Once the water returns, the eggs can then hatch.  

Suggestions For Controlling Mosquitoes

Von Lanken gave some suggestions for homeowners to help with mosquito issues. 

• Eliminate any standing water in your yard, including containers or buckets.
• Clean your gutters so there is no standing water.
• Empty birdbaths every few days.  

You can also purchase “mosquito dunks” which can control mosquitoes before they take flight.  

There are also plants that can help repel mosquitoes, such as citronella, lemon balm, lavender, and rosemary.  

Keep your family and pets safe this mosquito season. It looks like it may be an active one this year.