The Birds of Iceland

The Arctic Skua (Stercorarius parasiticus) can be seen in Faxaflói Bay during the breeding season, often harassing other seabirds for food.

The Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea) breeds in Faxaflói Bay, known for its long migrations and nesting on small islands and coastal areas.

The Atlantic Puffin (Fratercula arctica) is easily recognizable by its colorful beak and black-and-white plumage.

The Black Guillemot (Cepphus grylle) is a striking seabird, easily identified by its black plumage & bright red legs.

This gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) is often seen in Faxaflói Bay, particularly around the harbour in Reykjavík, and on the islands.

The Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla) nests on the cliffs of Faxaflói Bay, with large colonies visible on the bay’s rocky islands.

The Brent Goose (Branta bernicla) is often seen in Faxaflói Bay during its migratory stopovers, resting and feeding in the bay’s coastal areas. 

The Brünnich's Guillemot (Uria lomvia) is a hardy seabird, distinguished by its black head and back, white underparts, and its shorter, thicker beak.

The Common Guillemot (Uria aalge) breeds on the islands of Faxaflói Bay, forming large colonies that are visible from boats.

The Common Gull (Larus canus) is frequently seen around Faxaflói Bay, particularly in coastal habitats and urban areas.

The Eider Duck (Somateria mollissima) is commonly found in Faxaflói Bay, where it breeds on the islands and islets, known for its unique down.

Oystercatchers (Haematopus ostralegus) are common around the shores of Faxaflói Bay, easily spotted foraging on tidal flats and rocky shores.

The European Shag (Gulosus aristotelis) breeds on the rocky coasts and islands of Faxaflói Bay, often seen diving for fish close to shore.

This small seabird (Hydrobates pelagicus) can occasionally be seen in Faxaflói Bay, particularly during stormy weather when it is driven closer to shore.

The Glaucous Gull (Larus hyperboreus) is a winter visitor to Faxaflói Bay, often seen along the coast and in harbours.

This largest gull species (Larus marinus) is a common sight in Faxaflói Bay, particularly around the islands and coastal areas.

The Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a year-round resident of Faxaflói Bay, frequently spotted drying its wings on rocks and jetties.

Also known as the Common Loon (Gavia Immer), this bird can be seen in the waters of Faxaflói Bay, particularly in winter, recognized by its haunting calls.

The Greylag Goose (Anser Anser) frequents the wetlands and coastal areas around Faxaflói Bay, particularly during the breeding season.

The Herring Gull (Larus argentatus) is widespread around Faxaflói Bay, found in both natural and urban environments.

True to its name, the Iceland Gull (Larus glaucoides) is commonly seen in Faxaflói Bay during the winter, mingling with other gulls.

Leach's Storm Petrel (Hydrobates leucorhous) is sometimes observed in Faxaflói Bay, especially during migration periods.

The Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus) breeds in Faxaflói Bay, favoring coastal areas and islands.

In winter, the Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) is a common sight in the waters of Faxaflói Bay, diving for crustaceans and mollusks.

The Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) can be seen offshore in Faxaflói Bay, especially during its migration, and is commonly observed on whale watching tours.

The Northern Fulmar (Fulmarus glacialis) is common in Faxaflói Bay, often seen gliding on stiff wings close to the water's surface.

The Northern Gannet (Morus bassanus) can be seen in Faxaflói Bay during the breeding season, diving spectacularly for fish in the bay’s waters.

The Razorbill (Alca Torda) breeds on the cliffs and rocky islands in Faxaflói Bay, often seen flying low over the water.

The Sooty Shearwater (Ardenna grisea) is a summer visitor to Faxaflói Bay, where it feeds in the rich marine waters.

Whooper Swans (Cygnus Cygnus) are occasionally seen in Faxaflói Bay during migration, resting, or seen at the pond in Reykjavík.