Beyond the graceful flight of birds, the Arctic holds a diverse cast of creatures waiting to be discovered, from squirrels to majestic elks, known as moose in these parts. Here, amidst stunning sunsets and captivating aurora displays, lies a land of wonder.
#1 The Striking King Eider
Venture further north, and the landscape transforms into a vast tundra, a treeless expanse that appears devoid of life, save for the blanket of snow that gently covers it. Eventually, this icy terrain gives way to the Arctic Ocean, its waters surprisingly unfrozen along the Norwegian coast during winter, thanks to the tempering influence of the Gulf Stream. This mild respite draws in a plethora of avian visitors, adding life and color to the wintry landscape.
#2 The Bohemian Waxwing, Gangster Of The North
Among these feathered travelers, two species stand out as special attractions: the regal King eider and the striking Steller’s eider. While they breed in the far reaches of Russian territories, these birds seek refuge in milder climes during the winter months. Adorned with vibrant hues and intricate patterns, they present a captivating sight, particularly in harbors like Båtsfjord, where they can be observed up close. Nearby, the Black-legged kittiwakes find their nesting grounds on cliffs and even harbor buildings, claiming roofs and window ledges as their own.
On remote cliffs and islands, tucked away in secluded corners, alcids find sanctuary for nesting. These endearing, if somewhat awkward, creatures, designed for underwater forays rather than graceful flight or terrestrial locomotion, gather in vast colonies for safety. Hornøya stands as a testament to this avian congregation, hosting a staggering 100,000 seabirds on its cliffs. Here, amidst the cries of kittiwakes, one can marvel at the presence of Common guillemots, including many adorned in the striking bridled form, alongside the elusive Brünnich’s guillemot, which favors the most precipitous cliffs. The European shag adds its solemn presence to the scene, while the beloved Atlantic puffin, with its comical charm, steals the show.
Journeying through these Arctic realms demands resilience in the face of harsh conditions—bitter cold, biting winds, and unyielding snow. Yet, for those equipped with the right gear and spirit of adventure, the spectacle that unfolds is nothing short of extraordinary. These images capture the essence of two distinct journeys, offering a glimpse into the untamed beauty of the Arctic.
#3 The Prince Of The Woods, The Bright Pine Grosbeak
#4 The Bullfinch Is Another Very Colourful Bird
#5 Steller’s Eider Is My New Favourite Bird! Look At These Colours
#6 Atlantic Puffin, Nicknamed “Sea Parrot” In Several Languages
#7 The Only King In The North
#8 Puffin Landing
#9 The Willow Tit Is A Common Inhabitant Of The Forest
#10 A Female Greenfinch Landing Next To Its Mate
#11 Another Birder’s Favourite – The Long-Tailed Duck
#12 Shag Close-Up
#13 A Male Greenfinch
#14 Purple Sandpipers Taking Advantage Of Low-Tide To Forage On The Shore
#15 Kittiwake Ballet
#16 A Female King Eider Looking Straight At The Photographer
#17 Eider Laughter
#18 A Siberian Jay Eyeing Lunch At The Feeder In Kaamanen
#19 Common Eider Portrait
#20 This Cute Siberian Tit Looked Back At Me Before Flying Away
#21 Drifting In The Reflections Of Harbour Lights, A Steller’s Eider
#22 A Siberian Tit With Its Sunflower Seed
#23 Probably An Arctic Redpoll In Sunset Light
#24 A Young Glaucous Gull On A Windy Morning
#25 A Common Guillemot Coming Back From Its Fishing Stint
#26 A Kittiwake Grabs Something In Båtsfjord Harbour
#27 Towards Light
#28 Long-Tailed Duck – The Female This Time, In Early Morning Light
#29 A Pair Of Shags Played Hide And Seek With Me On The Pier
#30 A Group Of King Eiders Cruises In Front Of The Hide, While Gulls Noisily Feed In The Background
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