Iceland is a land of dramatic landscapes, stunning natural beauty, and unique wildlife. From the iconic puffins to the magnificent whales, the rugged terrain of Iceland offers habitats for a fascinating array of creatures. If you plan a trip to Iceland, exploring the island’s wildlife is necessary. This blog post will introduce you to Iceland’s unique wildlife and tell you where to spot them best.
Whales:
Iceland is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with various species in its waters. The common whales in Iceland include humpback, minke, and blue whales. The best places to spot whales in Iceland are the fjords, particularly the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the popular Husavik, known as the ‘whale watching capital of Iceland.’ Whale-watching tours are available throughout the year, and the experienced guides will provide you with fascinating information about these magnificent creatures.
Puffins:
There’s no better way to start than with the adorable puffins, Iceland’s most iconic bird. Puffins are monogamous birds that mate for life and usually return to the same nesting site year after year. Iceland’s coastline is dotted with cliffs and rocky outcrops, providing the perfect nesting sites for thousands of puffins. The best time to see puffins in Iceland is between May and August when they are actively nesting. You can spot puffins in the Westman Islands, Latrabjarg, and the Dyrholaey cliffs. Watching these birds clumsily take off and land into the sky is an unforgettable experience.
Arctic Foxes:
Iceland is home to the elusive Arctic foxes, the only native land mammal in the country. These animals have adapted to live in the extreme environments of Iceland. Their thick fur coats change colour according to the seasons, from white in the winter to brown in the summer. You can spot Arctic foxes in the western part of Iceland, particularly in the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve. The best time to see them is summer when they are more active and visible.
Reindeer:
While reindeer may be a common sight in Christmas decorations, they are native to certain parts of Iceland. While reindeer are not indigenous to Iceland, the animals were brought from Norway in the 18th century. They have since established small populations in the East and Westfjords of Iceland. The best place to spot reindeer is in the eastern part of the country, particularly near Egilsstadir.
Iceland’s unique wildlife is a significant draw for tourists, and it’s easy to see why. From the adorable puffins to the magnificent whales, Iceland has a fascinating array of creatures for nature lovers to discover. The best part is that you don’t have to venture too far to spot them, as most of these creatures can be found in the wild. Consider taking a whale-watching tour, visiting puffin colonies, or hiking in national parks to experience the magic of Iceland’s wildlife.
