Hreindýr

Mynd: Óðinn Eymundsson

Wildlife

Reindeer roam wild throughout the Vatnajökull region.  In the summer they stick mainly to the mountains, but in the winter they migrate to the lowlands – often to the delight of sightseeing motorists.  But be sure to drive carefully so as not to hit one, especially after dark.

Seals can be seen sometimes by the shore but can be seen all the time at the glacier lagoon, particularly in the wintertime where they find sanctuary in the serenity of this scenic, frozen lagoon.

The Vatnajökull region is also rich in birds, especially in May when Southeast Iceland is the first point of arrival for birds migrating from elsewhere in Europe to breed in their Icelandic homes or even further north; and in the autumn, as large groups gather to fly back south again. See icelandicbirds.com