Iceland, a land forged by fire and ice, presents a natural environment. Its dramatic landscapes, sculpted by volcanic activity and glacial forces, host a unique array of life. This island’s remote North Atlantic location profoundly shaped its biodiversity, leading to an ecosystem with distinct characteristics. Understanding the animal life here offers a glimpse into adaptation and survival in extreme conditions.
Iceland’s Sole Native Land Mammal
The Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus) is Iceland’s only native terrestrial mammal. This canid established its presence on the island by traversing sea ice at the close of the last Ice Age, 10,000 to 11,500 years ago. Isolated as the ice retreated, these foxes became the island’s original land predator. Their population was estimated at around 10,000 individuals as of September 2021.
The Arctic fox demonstrates adaptability to Iceland’s harsh climate and unique food sources. Its thick, double-layered fur provides insulation against extreme cold, with coat colors changing seasonally for camouflage. Unlike Arctic foxes elsewhere that prey on lemmings, a species absent from Iceland, the Icelandic foxes primarily sustain themselves on birds, bird eggs, fish, and carrion. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming berries and other available resources when food is scarce.
Geological Isolation and Native Species
Iceland’s geological youth and geographical isolation explain its limited number of native land mammals. The island began forming from volcanic eruptions along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge 16 to 25 million years ago. Situated atop a divergent plate boundary and a mantle hotspot, Iceland continues to be shaped by ongoing volcanic and seismic activity.
During the last glacial period, much of Iceland was covered by vast ice sheets. This combination of recent formation, extreme cold, and significant oceanic distance prevented most terrestrial mammals from naturally migrating and establishing populations. The absence of historical land bridges meant colonization required exceptional means, such as the Arctic fox’s journey across frozen seas.
Other Mammalian Inhabitants
Iceland is home to various other mammalian inhabitants, all introduced by humans. Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) were brought to the island in the 18th century, and American mink (Neovison vison) escaped from fur farms in the 1930s to establish wild populations. Accidental introductions include the wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) and house mouse (Mus musculus), believed to have arrived with early human settlers in the 9th or 10th century, along with rats (Rattus norvegicus and Rattus rattus) in the 18th century. Domestic animals such as horses, sheep, and some rabbit populations also exist in the wild after being introduced by humans.
Beyond its terrestrial environment, Iceland’s surrounding waters teem with a richer diversity of marine mammals. Two seal species, the grey seal (Halichoerus grypus) and the harbor seal (Phoca vitulina), commonly pup in Iceland, while others like the Arctic ringed seal, harp seal, hooded seal, and bearded seal are regular visitors. Iceland’s exclusive economic zone is frequented by 23 species of whales, including humpback, minke, and blue whales, many of which are migratory. These marine species, while native to the region, are distinct from the land mammals discussed.