Iceland, an island in the North Atlantic, presents a unique environment for animal life. Its distinctive landscape, shaped by volcanic activity, glaciations, and isolation, has resulted in a fascinating blend of wildlife. This combination of geology, climate, and remoteness influences the types of animals that thrive in this northern land.
Mammals of Iceland
Iceland’s terrestrial mammal population is limited, with only one native species. The Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus) is the sole indigenous land mammal, believed to have inhabited the island since the last Ice Age. This adaptable predator changes its coat from white or blue-grey in winter to brown or grey in summer, providing camouflage.
Many other land mammals in Iceland were introduced by humans. Reindeer, brought from Norway in the 18th century, now roam wild primarily in eastern Iceland. The American Mink, imported for fur farming in the 1930s, escaped and established wild populations, impacting local birdlife. Rodent species, including house mice, wood mice, and rats, arrived inadvertently with early settlers and through shipping.
Marine mammals are diverse in the nutrient-rich waters surrounding Iceland. Over 20 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises inhabit these seas, making the region a whale-watching destination. Common sightings include Minke whales, Humpback whales, and Orcas. White-beaked dolphins and Harbour porpoises are prevalent in coastal areas.
Iceland’s coastal areas are home to two main seal species: the Harbour seal and the Grey seal, both of which breed there. Other seal species, such as Ringed, Harp, Hooded, and Bearded seals, are regular visitors. Walruses were once native but disappeared after human settlement, though they occasionally visit the island.
Birds of Iceland
Iceland is a significant location for avian life, hosting around 72 breeding bird species. Many more species visit annually, with the total recorded reaching up to 400. The vast majority of Iceland’s bird population consists of seabirds, which find ample nesting opportunities along the country’s extensive coastline.
Seabirds like the Atlantic Puffin are a major attraction, with over half of the world’s population breeding in Iceland. Other cliff-nesting species include Kittiwakes, Common Guillemots, and Northern Gannets. The Arctic Tern is notable for its long-distance migration, using Iceland as a crucial breeding ground.
Waterfowl and wetland birds are prominent in Iceland’s diverse habitats. Whooper Swans are common breeding birds. Various geese species, including Greylag, Pink-footed, White-fronted, and Brent geese, nest or pass through during migration. Ducks such as the Common Eider and the Harlequin Duck are frequently seen. Wading birds like the European Golden Plover, Whimbrels, and Black-tailed Godwits populate the wetlands and open areas.
The Gyrfalcon is Iceland’s national bird. This powerful raptor is the largest falcon species globally. The White-tailed Eagle, Iceland’s largest bird of prey, has seen its numbers increase due to conservation efforts. Other raptors, including the Merlin, are also found. Resident land birds like the Raven, Snow Bunting, and Wren contribute to the terrestrial avian diversity.
Aquatic and Invertebrate Life
Iceland’s freshwater systems support a limited number of fish species, most of which are diadromous, migrating between fresh and saltwater. These include Atlantic Salmon, Brown Trout, and Arctic Char. The Three-spined Stickleback and Eel are also present in freshwater habitats.
The marine environment boasts a richer diversity of fish. Over 270 marine fish species have been identified in Icelandic waters. Commercially important species such as Cod, Haddock, and Herring form the backbone of Iceland’s fishing industry. These marine resources are sustained by the mixing of warm and cold ocean currents.
Terrestrial and freshwater invertebrate life in Iceland is less diverse compared to mainland regions. Arthropods, encompassing insects, arachnids, and crustaceans, represent the most species-rich group, with approximately 2,000 known species. Flies and midges are diverse among the insect populations. Spiders are also present, with around 100 species recorded. Iceland has no native reptiles or amphibians.
Factors Shaping Icelandic Wildlife
Iceland’s animal life is influenced by several interconnected factors. Its geographic isolation, far from continental landmasses, has historically limited natural colonization. Only species capable of crossing vast stretches of ocean, or those that arrived during periods of lower sea levels, could establish populations.
The subarctic climate and geological history also play a significant role. The island’s harsh conditions, marked by volcanic activity and past glaciations, create challenging habitats that few species can endure. The environment limits suitable living spaces and food sources, constraining biodiversity.
Human influence has reshaped Iceland’s wildlife since settlement. Early Norse settlers introduced various species, including livestock like the Icelandic horse and sheep. Accidental introductions of rodents and deliberate introductions of animals like reindeer and mink have altered the ecosystem. Conservation efforts protect native species and manage the impact of introduced ones.
The absence of many common mainland animals, such as native bears, deer, and most reptiles and amphibians, is linked to these factors. The cold climate makes it unsuitable for reptiles and amphibians to survive and reproduce. Without land bridges, these species lacked a natural pathway to reach the island.