World Population Review, a website that compiles data into rankings and maps, identified the most dangerous animal in each state based on reported deaths and the potential threat posed by different species.
Across the country, animals including sharks, bears, alligators and snakes ranked as the deadliest in various states. Snakes were named the top threat in 14 states, while the whitetail deer was ranked as the deadliest animal in states including Ohio, Pennsylvania and Arkansas, likely because of fatal vehicle crashes involving deer.
For New York, the report identified one of the state's smallest creatures: the mosquito.
Why are mosquitoes New York's deadliest animal?
Although New York is home to bears, snakes, deer and other potentially dangerous wildlife, mosquitoes pose a greater health
risk because some species can carry and spread diseases that can be deadly to humans.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers mosquitoes the deadliest insects in the world because of their ability to transmit disease.
World Population Review says New York has about 70 known mosquito species, though only a few are capable of spreading serious illnesses, including:
- West Nile virus
- Malaria
- Zika virus
- Dengue fever
The biggest mosquito-borne illness concern in New York is West Nile virus.
In 2025, 2,146 cases of West Nile virus were reported in the United States, including 59 cases in New York, according to the CDC. Severe infections can lead to neurological illness and, in some cases, death.
As of 2026, 143 West Nile virus cases had been reported nationwide, with no cases reported in New York so far.
Which mosquitoes in New York can spread disease?
According to Cornell University, three mosquito groups found in New York can pose health risks to humans and pets.
Culex mosquitoes
- Most active around dusk, nighttime and dawn
- Breed in stagnant water
- Can spread West Nile virus
- Can transmit heartworm to dogs
Aedes mosquitoes
- Active primarily during the day
- Breed in containers and areas with standing water
- Can spread diseases including Zika virus and eastern equine encephalitis
- Can transmit heartworm to dogs
Anopheles mosquitoes
- Most active at night and dawn
- Breed in fresh and brackish water
- Can spread malaria
- Can transmit heartworm to dogs
How to prevent mosquito bites in New York
The New York State Department of Health recommends several steps to reduce mosquito bites and lower the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
Residents should:
- Use insect repellent on exposed skin
- Wear long sleeves, pants and socks when mosquitoes are active
- Avoid outdoor exposure around sunrise, sunset and early evening when possible
- Cover strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting
- Make sure window and door screens are intact
How to get rid of mosquitoes around your home
Mosquitoes can reproduce in small amounts of standing water, according to health officials.
The state Department of Health recommends:
- Removing containers that collect water
- Disposing of old tires
- Cleaning clogged gutters
- Removing yard debris from gardens and pools
- Turning over buckets, wheelbarrows and kiddie pools when not in use
- Changing birdbath water at least twice a week
- Maintaining pools, hot tubs and fountains
What are the deadliest animals in other states?
The report found the deadliest animal varies widely depending on the state.
Examples include:
- Wyoming: Bison
- Pennsylvania: Whitetail deer
- Ohio: Whitetail deer
- New Jersey: Coyote
- Connecticut: Timber rattlesnake
- Florida: American alligator
- Montana: Grizzly bear
- Rhode Island: Tiger shark
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: What's New York's deadliest animal? It's not a bear or snake
