Iceland’s wildlife is fundamentally shaped by its unique location in the North Atlantic. The subarctic climate and volcanic landscape limit terrestrial life, resulting in a low number of native land species compared to continental landmasses. Geographic isolation meant only the hardiest species could establish themselves. However, the surrounding nutrient-rich ocean supports a diverse marine and avian population.
The Few Wild Land Mammals
The terrestrial environment supports only one mammal species considered truly native to Iceland: the Arctic Fox (Vulpes lagopus). This resilient canid colonized the island near the end of the last Ice Age, around 10,000 years ago, likely by crossing sea ice. Arctic foxes are highly adapted to the harsh conditions, exhibiting distinct color morphs depending on their habitat.
Every other wild land mammal population consists of species introduced by humans. Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) were brought from Norway in the 18th century to establish a new agricultural resource. Today, a wild herd of approximately 3,000 to 7,000 animals roams the eastern highlands.
The American Mink (Neogale vison) is another introduced species, imported for fur farming in the 1930s. It escaped and established widespread feral populations. The adaptable mink now competes with native birds for resources and is considered an invasive species.
Iceland’s Abundant Avian Life
In sharp contrast to the scarcity of land mammals, Iceland’s coastal cliffs and wetlands provide breeding grounds for a massive and diverse avian population. The most recognizable is the Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica), a seabird that nests in burrows on grassy cliffs during the summer months. Iceland hosts a significant proportion of the world’s Atlantic Puffin population, with millions returning annually to sites like the Látrabjarg cliffs and the Westman Islands.
These dramatic sea cliffs are also colonized by dense colonies of other seabirds:
- Northern Gannets
- Common Guillemots
- Black-legged Kittiwakes
- Razorbills
Beyond the coasts, the Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus) is the national bird and the largest falcon species globally, soaring as an apex predator. Iceland is also a crucial stopover and breeding location for migratory species, such as the Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea), which completes the longest migration of any animal each year.
The Marine Giants and Seals
The cold, nutrient-rich waters surrounding Iceland support a productive marine ecosystem, attracting a large number of marine mammals. At least 23 species of cetaceans have been recorded in the country’s economic zone, many of which migrate to feed during the warmer months.
Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) are frequently observed feeding, and Minke Whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) are common closer to the coast. Larger species, including the Blue Whale (Balaenoptera musculus) and the Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus), also visit the deep-water feeding grounds.
Resident marine mammals include two species of seal that regularly pup on the coasts: the Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina) and the Grey Seal (Halichoerus grypus). The Harbor Seal is the more common, often seen hauled out on rocky beaches, while the Grey Seal prefers more exposed outer coastal areas.
The Unique Domestic Breeds
While not wild, several domesticated animals are uniquely Icelandic due to centuries of genetic isolation. The Icelandic Horse is the best-known example, distinct for its small size, hardiness, and its ability to perform five gaits, including the unique pace known as the tölt. To maintain genetic purity and protect the population from foreign diseases, a strict regulation prohibits any horse that leaves the island from ever returning.
The Icelandic Sheep, a Northern European short-tailed breed, is a genetically pure descendant of animals brought by Viking settlers. This dual-purpose breed is valued for its meat and its wool, which consists of two distinct layers: a soft insulating layer and a long, water-repellent outer coat.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is the country’s only native dog. This Nordic Spitz-type breed was historically used for herding livestock across the rugged terrain.