BIRDS OF SVALBARD
Inhabitants of the Kingdom of Ice
BASIC INFORMATION
For many people, Svalbard is associated primarily with polar bears, glaciers, and the raw Arctic landscape. Yet during summer, the Archipelago transforms into one of the most extraordinary birdwatching destinations in the world. Millions of wings, constant movement above the fjords, and the sounds of seabird colonies make the Arctic come alive in an entirely different rhythm. Birds are among the very first signs of the Arctic summer.
With the arrival of the polar day, enormous numbers of seabirds return to Svalbard. Cliffs, islands, and rocky coastlines turn into vibrant breeding colonies full of life. For many species, the short Arctic season is their only opportunity to raise their young.
The abundance of food in the cold Arctic waters makes Svalbard one of the most important breeding areas for seabirds in the northern part of the world.
During our expeditions, we very often observe:
• ptarmigans
• puffins
• guillemots
• kittiwakes
• Brünnich’s guillemots
• Arctic terns
• skuas
• fulmars
• barnacle geese
• as well as the highly characteristic eider ducks
Bird colonies – noise, chaos and the beauty of nature
Birds on Svalbard are easiest to observe near the enormous breeding colonies established on steep cliffs. Thousands of birds soaring simultaneously above the rock faces create one of the most spectacular sights in the Arctic.
The noise of the colonies can often be heard from a great distance. The air is filled with the cries of birds, while thousands of wings constantly circle around the cliffs. For many expedition participants, this becomes one of the most intense experiences of encountering truly wild nature.
Bird colonies are also an extremely important part of the Arctic ecosystem. They attract Arctic foxes, gulls, and sometimes even polar bears searching for easy food.
The Arctic full of wings
Although the landscape of Svalbard may appear harsh and empty, in summer the Archipelago becomes full of life. Birds are one of the most important elements of this world — they bring movement, sound, and energy to the Arctic.
During our expeditions around Svalbard, birdwatching very often becomes one of the most unforgettable experiences of the Arctic.
Svalbard is also a true paradise for wildlife photographers. Arctic light, raw landscapes, and the enormous number of birds create truly exceptional conditions for photography.
