Iceland, an isolated island nation in the North Atlantic, has a distinctive environment shaped by its volcanic landscape and remote geographical position. This unique setting results in a relatively limited number of native terrestrial mammals, but the country boasts a rich diversity in its avian and marine animal populations.
Terrestrial Mammals
Iceland has a scarcity of native terrestrial mammal species. The Arctic fox ( _Vulpes lagopus_ ) is the only land mammal native to the island, believed to have arrived around 10,000 years ago. They are well-adapted to harsh Arctic conditions, with a thick, double-layered coat that provides insulation and changes color seasonally for camouflage. Arctic foxes are opportunistic feeders, consuming birds, their eggs, carrion, and scavenging on marine mammals and fish. Conservation efforts help maintain their numbers.
Reindeer ( _Rangifer tarandus_ ) were introduced to Iceland from Norway in the late 18th century and now thrive in wild populations, predominantly in the eastern part of the country. Their population is managed through hunting. American mink ( _Neovison vison_ ), originating from fur farm escapees, are also found in the wild. Their presence introduced a non-native predator into the Icelandic ecosystem. Common rodents such as mice and rats are present, found in both human settlements and wild populations.
Avian Species
Iceland’s diverse birdlife makes it a significant destination for birdwatching. Seabirds like the Atlantic Puffin ( _Fratercula arctica_ ) form large colonies along the coast, attracting many visitors. Other prevalent seabirds include the Northern Gannet and various gull species, such as the Iceland Gull and Black-headed Gull. The Arctic Tern ( _Sterna paradisaea_ ) uses Iceland as a crucial breeding ground and stopover point during its migratory journey.
Raptors inhabit the island, including the Gyrfalcon ( _Falco rusticolus_ ), Iceland’s national bird. This largest falcon preys on other birds like ptarmigan and waterfowl, as well as small rodents. The White-tailed Eagle ( _Haliaeetus albicilla_ ), the largest bird of prey in Iceland, primarily feeds on fish and carrion. Its population has seen recovery due to conservation efforts after significant decline.
Abundant waterfowl species include the Harlequin Duck ( _Histrionicus histrionicus_ ), unique to Iceland in Europe as a breeding bird. These ducks favor fast-flowing rivers for breeding and typically winter along the coast. The Whooper Swan ( _Cygnus cygnus_ ) breeds across Iceland, with most migrating for winter, though a smaller number remain on the island year-round.
Marine Life
Iceland’s waters support a rich diversity of marine animals. Various whale species frequent Icelandic waters, including large baleen whales such as Humpback Whales ( _Megaptera novaeangliae_ ), Minke Whales ( _Balaenoptera acutorostrata_ ), Fin Whales ( _Balaenoptera physalus_ ), and the Blue Whale ( _Balaenoptera musculus_ ). Whale watching is a popular activity. Orcas ( _Orcinus orca_ ), also known as killer whales, are regularly sighted and primarily feed on herring.
Dolphins and porpoises are common in Iceland’s marine environment. White-beaked Dolphins ( _Lagenorhynchus albirostris_ ) are the most frequently encountered dolphin species, present year-round, and often approach boats, riding their bow waves. Harbour Porpoises ( _Phocoena phocoena_ ) are another common species, often seen in coastal areas.
Two seal species breed in Iceland: the Harbour Seal ( _Phoca vitulina_ ) and the Grey Seal ( _Halichoerus grypus_ ). Harbour seals are the most common seal around Iceland, though their population is critically endangered in Icelandic waters. Grey seals are larger than Harbour seals. Both species are often observed along the coast, basking on rocks or swimming near the shore. Fish populations, including Cod, Haddock, and Herring, are also found in these waters, forming the base of the marine food web.