Animals of Iceland

Did you know that Iceland is home to a variety of animals that have adapted to some of the harshest environments on the planet? From the adorable puffins to the majestic reindeer, this beautiful country is filled with fascinating species that are sure to captivate your imagination. Join me as we explore the intriguing world of animals in Iceland and discover some of the most amazing creatures that call this place home.

Icelandic sheep, brought over by the Vikings, have adapted to the harsh climate and rugged terrain, symbolizing the resilience of Iceland.

Iceland, a country with 350,000 inhabitants, manages to raise a whopping 600,000 sheep annually.

These hardy animals have a dual-layered coat, with the outer layer called 'tog' and the inner layer called 'þel.' Tog is a long, coarse fiber that provides excellent water resistance, while þel is soft and insulating. Together, these layers protect the sheep from the unforgiving Icelandic weather.

People really like Icelandic wool because it can be used in lots of different ways. It's especially famous for making traditional Icelandic clothes, like the cozy Lopapeysa sweater that you see a lot in Iceland.

The bitter truth is that these beautiful and sweet creatures, Icelandic sheep, are raised not only for their wool but also for their meat, which is considered tender and flavorful. The sheep are primarily grass-fed and allowed to roam free during the summer months, contributing to the quality and taste of the meat.

As an integral part of Iceland's rural landscape, these sheep have also shaped the country's economy and agricultural practices. Annual sheep roundups, known as 'réttir,' are a longstanding tradition where farmers gather to sort and claim their sheep after the summer grazing season. This event creates a sense of community, as all farmers catch sheep almost simultaneously - before the first hard frost.

This means that sheep graze freely from May to October; they roam freely in the mountains and fields. Often the sheep of different farmers are mixed, and in October, when the sheep are collected, the farmers divide the sheep by the paint applied to the wool or by the tag on the ear.

The Arctic fox is the sole indigenous animal in Iceland, having migrated to the island during the last Ice Age. These small but hardy creatures are widely spread across the country, and their thick fur is a great defense against Iceland's harsh climate.

Reindeer were brought to Iceland in the late 18th century and have adapted well. They live only in the eastern part of the country, where they graze on lichen, moss, and other vegetation.

Iceland is home to puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes. These birds nest on the island's cliffs and coastal areas, taking advantage of the abundant food sources in the surrounding waters.

In Iceland's waters, you can find different kinds of whales, like humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas. Lots of tourists like to go whale watching, which means they get to see these amazing animals from close up.

Seals are another common sight in Iceland, with harbor and grey seals found along the island's coastlines. These Iceland animals can often be spotted lounging on rocky shores or swimming in the surrounding waters.

Minks were brought to Iceland in the 1930s to be raised for their fur. Unfortunately, they pose a threat to the native bird populations, especially ground-nesting birds, due to their predatory nature. To protect the ecosystem of the island, Iceland has implemented programs to control the mink population, such as trapping and hunting. However, it's important to note that there are cage traps for minks along the coast of Iceland. Minks have adapted well to Iceland's diverse habitats, including coastal areas and freshwater environments.

With their sturdy build and thick fur, Icelandic horses are well-equipped to handle the island's rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. Renowned for their gentle nature and unique gaits, these charming creatures have been a beloved part of Icelandic culture for over a thousand years.