Learn all about Iceland's wildlife in our detailed guide. Despite being a stark, volcanic land with little vegetation, Icelandic wildlife and animals have evolved and adapted to the conditions. Discover animals native to Iceland, including those that contribute to the country’s distinct national character. Read ahead to learn about the animals of Iceland.
Before humans settled Iceland in the 9th century, it had but one land mammal, the Arctic fox. The rest of the creatures were either birds or marine animals. However, a millennium later, a wealth of wildlife has adapted to the harsh climate.
From the unique domestic livestock that quite literally kept Icelanders alive during their most trying times to the creatures that have escaped captivity and formed a wild population, the animals of Iceland are diverse. They’re one part of what attracts guests here from around the world.
If you're interested in getting a closer look at Iceland's animals and their habitats, you can book a variety of wildlife tours to enhance your experience. You can see many of them as you travel around the country, so it’s a good idea to plan self-drive tours and explore with a rental car. Read on to explore the fascinating creatures that make up Iceland's wildlife.
Key Takeaways
- Icelandic horses have a unique fifth gait called the skeið, making them both a cultural icon and a one-of-a-kind riding experience.
- Reindeer in Iceland roam wild in the East, having originally been introduced for farming but never domesticated.
- Feral mink and rabbits, once brought for fur or released as pets, now thrive in the wild and cause unexpected challenges to ecosystems.
- Puffins are incredibly common in Iceland during summer—look for them on cliffs, islands, and even on short boat tours from Reykjavik.
- Reykjavik Family Park & Zoo offers an easy way to see native and domestic Icelandic animals—like Arctic foxes, seals, sheep, and reindeer—right in the capital area.
Learn how to interact safely with Iceland's wildlife during your hikes, camping trips, and other outings with helpful FAQs.
Domestic Animals in Iceland
The vast majority of animals in Iceland that you’ll see are domestic. After all, this is a nation that relies heavily on agriculture.
Though farm animals might not seem fascinating at first, their remarkable adaptation to Iceland's harsh climate and their crucial roles in the country’s history have made them essential to human survival. These resilient creatures have supported Icelanders through tough times, showcasing their unique importance to the nation’s heritage and way of life.
The Icelandic Sheep
Photo by Cosmic Timetraveller
The Icelandic Sheep were the lifeblood of Iceland for centuries. The first settlers from Norway brought them to the island, and their wool and meat helped humans survive Iceland’s harsh conditions. There are approximately 800,000 sheep in Iceland, more than double the number of people.
While not being the most exciting animals in Iceland, their role in the country’s history has been significant. Whenever the nation has gone through terrible struggles or a surge in growth, it has always returned to sheep.
For example, the 1783 eruption of Lakagigar Craters was the most fatal in the country’s history. Up to 25 percent of the population died, primarily because of famine caused by the 80 percent of the nation’s sheep lost to the ash’s poisons.
At the same time, Iceland's rapid growth and industrial development during World War I were also tied to sheep. With much of Europe’s countryside consumed by war, demand for Icelandic wool surged. The resulting economic boost from sheep products during those four years played a key role in shaping the foundation of modern Iceland.
Their wool is used to create unique handicrafts, such as the Icelandic sweater, also called “lopapeysa.” The lopapeysa is an ideal layering piece, providing warmth and protection from the elements. It’s especially perfect for winter activities in Iceland. To get your hands on an authentic lopapeysa, visit the Handknitting Association on Skolavordustigur Street.
Many of Reykjavik’s Best Restaurants incorporate lamb into their dishes, as it’s a staple in Icelandic cuisine outside of fish dishes. The nation’s iconic lamb soup, in particular, is celebrated worldwide for its rich, hearty flavor.
The rich flavor of Icelandic lamb has a curious, almost haunting origin rooted in tradition. Each summer, sheep are set free to roam the Highlands, grazing on wild Icelandic flowers and herbs like Arctic thyme. This natural diet infuses their meat with a distinct taste well before it ever reaches the table. The result is a flavor closely connected to the land and a centuries-old way of life.
- Learn more about Icelandic Food
- Check out The 10 Weirdest Things about Icelandic People & Culture
The Icelandic Sheepdog
Photo by Ulf Bodin
Like the livestock of Iceland, Icelandic Sheepdogs developed from their Nordic cousins when brought to Iceland by early settlers hundreds of years ago. Since then, they have been essential in aiding farmers, herding, and guarding property.
Like most animals brought to Iceland, they’re smaller than their relatives abroad. Due to the country's long isolation, they’re also more vulnerable to disease. In fact, their population declined so drastically by the late 19th century that the breed came dangerously close to extinction.
After a ban on other dog breeds entering the country and later pet vaccines and modern veterinary care that made this first step redundant, the population has recovered. Other than their size, Icelandic sheepdogs share the same fluffy coat and curled tails as many other sheepdog breeds.
They also share the same behavior. The sheepdogs are highly energetic, resilient, agile, and friendly, making them great companions for those with the time and space to let them exercise. The vast majority of Icelandic sheepdogs live out in the country, where they can utilize their high energy and natural herding instincts to help their owners.
The Icelandic Horse
Icelandic horses are not at all like other breeds. At first sight, it appears that they only differ in terms of height, as they rarely reach 59 inches (150 centimeters) tall.
After a few minutes in their company, however, it becomes apparent that Icelandic horses are more friendly, curious, and intelligent than other horses. These character traits have made them a central part of Icelandic identity.
The reason for their unique charm is due to their descendants. Very few horses could fit within a longboat when Iceland was first settled, and the best horses would have been chosen to bring on the journey.
Since many of the early settlers were wealthy chieftains, they would only take the very best of their stock with them. That meant that, as the settlement period ended, Iceland had a healthy population of the sturdiest, strongest, and most intelligent horses from Norway.
Icelandic horses are not particularly concerned by the winter weather in Iceland. Initially, the horses were almost solely used for transportation and sometimes for battles between clans. Over the centuries, however, they were used more and more for farm work and became central to the nation's survival.
Those in possession of a horse were able to travel from the country to the towns and trading posts, allowing them to develop more wealth and opportunity. Those without one were left isolated and more impoverished as a result.
As equestrian sports became more and more popular, Icelandic horses became noted for something else — while most breeds around the world have three or four “gaits” (style of walking, such as the trot and gallop), Icelandic horses had five.
Icelandic horses are known for two unique gaits: the smooth, four-beat tölt, and the faster, racing skeið. The tölt is especially prized for its comfortable ride over rough terrain, and many riding tours give experienced riders the chance to try it firsthand.
- Learn more about the Enchanting Gaits of The Icelandic Horse
- See more about Icelandic Horseback Riding
Icelandic horses are popular for competitions, riding, and their meat. They've become very popular in riding competitions and exhibitions because of their character, appearance, and unique qualities. More Icelandic horses now live outside the country than inside; 100,000 live abroad, compared to the 80,000 living domestically.
However, those who leave Iceland can never return, and no other breeds are allowed on the island. These restrictions are because the isolated native breed is susceptible to diseases, and a foreign infection could cripple the whole population.
Cattle in Iceland
Photo by Kristoffer Jensen
A less commonly seen farm animal in Iceland is the cow, but the country does have a unique breed. You might be able to spot them on summer self-drive tours or by simply renting an affordable car.
Like the horses, Icelandic cattle were brought over with Norway’s earliest settlers and have since developed unique traits. They are, for example, smaller than their European counterparts and very susceptible to foreign diseases.
Unfortunately, while Icelandic horses’ other qualities compare favorably to similar breeds worldwide, the qualities of Icelandic cattle do not. The Agricultural University of Iceland recently released a study saying that Swedish cows would produce more milk at a lower cost than the native breed and suggested that making the switch would benefit the economy.
Although the Icelandic population is not as connected to their cows as to their horses, there was still resistance to this idea.
For a millennium, Icelandic cattle have produced essential dairy products, many of which have become an integral part of the nation’s culture. One particularly notable example is Icelandic skyr, a thick, yogurt-like cheese.
For this reason, many consider them too crucial to Icelandic heritage to desert. The cows are also favored for their diverse colorations and patterns.
You can enjoy authentic Icelandic skyr at the Erpsstadir Farm in West Iceland and Efstidalur Farm in the Golden Circle area, where you can also meet the cows that produce the milk for this traditional treat.
Iceland has been developing premium Angus beef, with Midey Farm leading in quality production. For a taste of this local Angus beef, you can visit The Grillmarket in Reykjavik, where Midey’s high-quality meat is featured in their dishes. Alongside their Angus beef options, the restaurant features other creative dishes made from locally sourced Icelandic ingredients, celebrating the country’s fresh, seasonal produce.
Non-Native Wildlife in Iceland
Photo by Tamas Tuzes-Katai
Iceland only had one native land animal when the Norse first arrived here. Today, there are multiple species that can be found across the country.
None arrived naturally, either being brought over by humans or sneaking across on boats. However, all have established themselves successfully, for better or worse.
Reindeer in East Iceland
Are there reindeer in Iceland? Yes! Reindeer in East Iceland are a common sight.
They were brought over to Iceland much later than domestic animals in the 18th century. Initially, they were supposed to be farmed as they were across Scandinavia, but Icelanders never took to the practice. The population of Icelandic reindeer, therefore, became wild.
About 3,000 reindeer now live in the country, concentrated in East Iceland. The reindeer in Iceland are most commonly found around Snaefell Mountain, on the higher ground throughout summer, and in the warmer lowlands through winter. Still, they have been seen as far south as Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and as far north as the Vopnafjordur Fjord.
Ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, a guided reindeer safari offers the chance to experience Iceland’s unique wildlife and landscapes up close, with a good opportunity to spot a reindeer herd in their natural habitat.
While the reindeer are well-loved across Iceland, their population is controlled seasonally. There is a concern that they may take food away from the grazing lands used by the free-roaming sheep. This consumption would cause significant damage to the economy in the case of a brutal winter or a large-scale volcanic eruption, both of which are not uncommon in Iceland.
Rodents and Mink in Iceland
Photo by Pdreijnders, from Wiki Creative Commons. No edits.
Throughout history, whenever humans discovered and settled new lands, they brought rodents with them, and Iceland is no exception. Along with wood and house mice, brown rats came over either with early settlers or later with trading ships and formed populations. The rats primarily live in populated areas, while the mice have spread all across the country.
Iceland also has a population of wild mink that was established more recently. They were imported for fur farms throughout the early 20th century but escaped and became feral. They’re often spotted fishing in the waterways around Reykjavik and hunting for bird eggs along nesting cliffs, and have become the bane of chicken farmers across the country.
Rabbits are another invasive species and came even more recently than the mink. The majority of the rabbits are descendants of pets released around 2010. Now, they have spread across the country and wreak havoc wherever they go. In Oskjuhlid Hill and Ellidaardalur Valley, both forested areas in Reykjavik, they gnaw through tree roots and fences, damaging nature and human constructions alike.
Native Wildlife in Iceland
Picture from Eyjafjord Humpbacks | Whale Watching from Akureyri
After reading this far, you might be wondering what animals are native to Iceland. As has been noted, Iceland has just one indigenous land mammal. However, that is not to say that the native wildlife of Iceland lacks diversity.
There’s a wealth of Iceland fauna in the country’s seas and skies, which draws visitors worldwide. It’s one of the best places to visit for bird watching, seal watching, and whale watching.
Whales of Iceland
Iceland’s fertile sub-Arctic waters, fed by the Gulf Stream, are home to over 20 different whale and dolphin species.
It’s one of the best places in the world for whale watching, especially during the summer when the great whales migrate here to feed. With a variety of whale-watching tours available, you're sure to find one that suits your interests perfectly. This industry is changing how Icelanders view the creatures of the deep, as the relationship between the two is historical and complex.
As seafarers, many accounts from early Icelanders depict whales as terrible leviathans. An incredibly famous story tells of a warlock who attempted to take over Iceland by transforming into a whale before being rebuffed by a different guardian spirit on all four shores.
Picture from Húsavík Traditional Whale Watching
However, while feared when in their natural environment, whales were hugely appreciated when they washed up on the beaches. The meat from a single stranding could feed communities, and their oil could supply candles and lanterns to help sustain people through the dark winters. The word for “hvalreki” in Icelandic means both windfall and a beached whale.
Iceland began commercial whaling in the late 19th century, later than most other nations, and struggled with the pressures against it for many decades. Commercial whaling has been outlawed and reinstated several times due to stock populations, international pressure, and local opinions.
While whaling continues on a small scale today, there is a constant debate within the country about whether it has a future. What indeed does have a future, however, is whale watching. Tours are leaving from ports all across the country, with incredibly high success rates and a diverse wealth of life to see.
Arctic Foxes of Iceland
Photo by Jonatan Pie
Before human settlement, the Arctic fox was the only land mammal that lived in Iceland. They walked over sea ice to the island during the last ice age, only to be stranded there when it melted over 10,000 years ago.
Incredibly adaptable creatures, they managed to sustain themselves by feeding on eggs, birds, invertebrates, and berries.
The foxes were hunted extensively for fur and livestock protection when humans arrived. With the development of fur farms, the former reason no longer applies, but farmers still maintain that population control is essential for their economy.
While hunting disrupted the fox populations, human arrival meant a wealth of new food in rodents, food waste, and lambs, allowing the species to survive.
Photo by Jonatan Pie
The Arctic foxes in Iceland come in two colors: white and blue. White foxes change their coat completely between seasons, going from snow-white in winter to brown and white in summer.
Blue foxes do not change coats, but their fur is bleached throughout summer so that they’re much lighter by the arrival of winter. However, both variants thicken their fur throughout the colder months and lose it when the weather warms.
Arctic foxes can be found across Iceland but are mainly concentrated in the Westfjords. There, you can find them in the very north of the remote Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, where they’re protected. For those eager to spot an Arctic fox, options include booking a 10-hour Arctic Fox Tour or even a 3-day guided tour in Hornstrandir. They’re pretty fearless of humans in this region, so wildlife photographers often come for some very intimate shots.
Since 2007, there has been an Arctic Fox Center in the village of Sudavik. The center has led the way in researching these animals, educating people about their threats, and promoting eco-tourism.
Seals of Iceland
Photo by Jane Yeo
Seals have used Iceland’s shores as a place to haul out, breed, and shed for millennia. Its cold, fertile waters and long stretches of rocky, uninhabited coast allowed large colonies to evolve before humans ever set foot here.
Their numbers and lack of fear of humans were a blessing when settlers did arrive. Seals provided the people with essential resources, from Icelandic food to clothing to oil, which helped make the stark new country habitable.
Their populations were dwindling heavily by the 20th century when more and more were taken for fashion rather than necessity, but their numbers today are relatively stable.
Photo by Einar Jonnson
Seals are still hunted occasionally in Iceland due to their damage to fishing equipment and passing ringworm to fish stocks. Some are still hunted on private property for fur.
These practices have come under increasing scrutiny as the seal-watching industry has boomed, especially since the opening of the Icelandic Seal Center in the village of Hvammstangi.
The Icelandic Seal Center is dedicated to researching these animals and raising awareness about their threats. You can visit the Seal Center's informative exhibition about this charming marine mammal while exploring North Iceland.
Two seal species live permanently on Iceland’s shores: the harbor seal and the grey seal. They live all around Iceland, but the best places to spot them are the Westfjords, the Vatnsnes Peninsula, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
They’re not the only species to frequent Icelandic waters, however. Harp, bearded, hooded, and ringed seals are occasional visitors, and even walruses are sometimes seen in the Westfjords. Walruses used to have a large population here but were hunted to extinction in the 17th century.
- Learn more about Seals and Seal Watching in Iceland
Puffins of Iceland
Puffins are considered rare and elusive birds in most of the world, but there’s a wealth of them in Iceland. Their arrival in April and May marks the beginning of summer, and they can be easily seen up close in many parts of the country until August.
Approximately 60 percent of the world’s North Atlantic puffins breed in Iceland’s cliffs, and millions of nesting pairs exist. These birds do not like to roost anywhere where there are no others of their species, so wherever you can find one, you are likely to see hundreds more.
Puffins can be appreciated by boat and by land. From Reykjavik’s Old Harbor, it's easy to jump on an hour-long tour to one of two islands, Lundey and Akurey, just out in the bay, where they nest in the thousands.
These vessels are small enough to get close to the rocky shores, and many tours include binoculars so they can be seen more clearly. Many whale-watching tours also include a detour to these islands.
- Discover Where to Find Puffins in Iceland
Those traveling to the Westfjords need not even board a boat to see puffins in summer. The Latrabjarg Cliffs, which are up to 1,444 feet (440 meters) high and stretch for 8.7 miles (14 kilometers), are impressive in their own right, but the wealth of birdlife makes them awe-inspiring.
Walking along the edge of this cliff makes it possible to get within arm’s length of the nesting puffins. They have no fear of people and will only fly off if someone tries to touch them. At such proximity, the details of their painted beaks and adorable expressions are on clear display.
These are not the only places puffins nest, however. You can find them in huge populations around the Westman Islands, on the Dyrholaey Rock Arch, in Borgarfjordur Eystri, and on Grimsey Island in the North.
As is well-documented, Icelanders have quite a penchant for unusual meats. Therefore, it's the only country in the world where you can spend the day watching puffins and then enjoy one for dinner.
Other Birds of Iceland
Puffins are the most popular bird in Iceland, but this tiny island has an enormous wealth of avian life. The cliffs of Latrabjarg in the Westfjords and Krysuvikurbjarg on the Reykjanes Peninsula are home to thousands of individuals and many different species, such as guillemots, fulmar, gulls, auks, sandpipers, and peewits.
You can also find Arctic terns and sea eagles around the coasts. There’s an equal amount of diversity in freshwater; Myvatn Lake alone is home to 14 different duck species, as well as geese and whooper swans.
Outside of aquatic environments, there are even more species: gyrfalcons, golden plovers, snipes, and ptarmigans all call the island home.
However, no discussion about the birds of Iceland would be complete without a mention of the raven. While this is one of the world’s most widespread animals, they’re ubiquitous here and revered for their intelligence and importance to Icelandic folklore and pagan beliefs.
Top Puffin and Birdwatching Tours in Iceland
If you're visiting Iceland and want to see puffins and other native bird species, know that there are a plethora of tours to choose from. Some of the best birdwatching tours available include:
- The Ingolfshofdi Puffin Tour – Epic Birdwatching Adventure in Iceland — Bird and nature lovers alike will love this South Coast tour, where they'll have a chance to see puffins and other wildlife.
- Scenic 1 Hour Puffin & Bird Watching Boat Tour with Transfer from Reykjavik's Old Harbor — Departing from Reykjavik's Old Harbor, you'll have the opportunity to see puffins and other seabirds along with scenic Icelandic vistas.
- Premium 1-Hour Puffin RIB Boat Tour from Reykjavik Harbor — This guided tour will take you on an RIB boat across the breathtaking Faxafloi Bay in search of puffins.
Polar Bears from Greenland
Photo by Hans-Jurgen Mager
The polar bear is not one of the native Icelandic animals but a rare visitor from Greenland. Contrary to what many think, polar bears do not have a permanent population in Iceland. On rare occasions, polar bears get stranded on drifting icebergs that carry them from Greenland to Iceland’s shores, typically in the Westfjords—but these incidents are extremely uncommon and not something visitors need to worry about.
Unfortunately, when they arrive, they’re likely to be starving and, therefore, pose a significant threat to those living in the region. Considering this and the cost of capturing, bringing to health, and returning the polar bear to its home (estimated at 85,000 USD), they’re killed upon arrival.
FAQs About Icelandic Wildlife
Knowing what animals are in Iceland can help shape your visit, but the species here aren't all you should familiarize yourself with. To ensure you stay safe during your Icelandic adventures and protect the local wildlife, here's an overview of several important facts and details you should know in advance:
Can Icelandic Wildlife Be Photographed?
Yes, Icelandic wildlife can be photographed. Moreover, the country's stunning landscapes and environments make it an ideal location for wildlife photography. Of course, it is important to always maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing the animals.
How Can You Stay Safe From Wildlife in Iceland While Hiking?
Keep a Safe DistanceStay at least several meters away from any wild animal you encounter. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to observe them without getting too close.
Make Your Presence KnownTalk softly or clap occasionally to alert animals to your approach. This reduces the chance of startling them, which could lead to defensive behavior.
Stick to Marked TrailsFollow designated paths to avoid stumbling upon nesting grounds or animal dens. Trails are planned to minimize disruption to local fauna.
How Can You Stay Safe From Wild Animals in Iceland While Camping?
Store Food ProperlyUse sealed containers and keep food stored inside your vehicle if possible. This helps prevent attracting animals to your campsite.
Always Camp at Designated SpotsIt's a good idea to choose a campsite that is a reasonable distance away to avoid unplanned encounters. As such, sticking to designated camping spots is essential.
Clean Up ThoroughlyDispose of trash immediately and wash all cooking gear after use. Lingering smells can draw wildlife into your camping area.
Experience Iceland's Wildlife Firsthand On Your Adventure
In just over a thousand years, Iceland has transformed from a stark, uninhabited island with a single native land mammal into a place where domestic life flourishes against the odds. Today, no matter where you travel across the country, signs of resilience and adaptation are all around—thriving even in the most unforgiving landscapes.
Of course, you are more likely to find animals that live in Iceland if you know where to look. From the great whales to the runaway rodents, Iceland’s animals and wildlife are ever shaping this nation’s character.
Whether you’re interested in learning about what animals live in Iceland or where to see them, we hope this guide has helped you. We’d love to hear and respond to any comments or questions you may have in the section below.
