Birds in the Faroe Islands

Photo: Rannvá Joensen

The gannet only breeds on the island of Mykines

The species of birds that can be seen in the Faroe Islands vary from season to season. Many can be observed all year round, though.

Contrary to what you might believe, the isolated location of the Faroe Islands provides the perfect conditions for a rich and varied birdlife. Hundreds of thousands of birds arrive in the Faroe Islands every summer to breed. As of 1 January 2012, 305 bird species have been catalogued in the Faroe Islands. Of these, about 50 species breed regularly in the islands, while a further 60 species are frequent visitors. Respect nature

When walking in the countryside, it is necessary to follow a strict set of guidelines. If a bird constantly gives a warning call and flies or dives over your head, it means that you are close to its nest. If you spot chicks away from any visible nest and with no adult birds nearby, leave the chicks alone, as this is perfectly normal. Leave the area, and observe the birds at a suitable distance.

Equipment for bird watching

For an optimal experience, binoculars with at least 7-10 times magnification are recommended. If you would like to observe seabirds from a land-based position, a larger size telescope is preferable. A telescope allows for the observation of breeding birds for extended periods without disturbing them. Avoid walking on cultivated land, and always ask local residents for permission to walk in the outfield, where the islands’ rich birdlife can be experienced. Always show consideration for birds and animals, and, of course, never drop litter.

Ramsar sites

The Faroese government has selected three Ramsar sites in the Faroe Islands. Ramsar is an international agreement, established to protect areas that are especially important for birdlife and biodiversity, both on a national and international level. The areas selected as Ramsar sites in the Faroes are the islands of Mykines, Skúvoy and Nólsoy.

Oystercatcher

The oystercatcher is the national bird of the Faroe Islands. This eye-catching, black and white bird with its distinctive red bill is likely to be observed in uninhabited areas. It brings great joy to many Faroese people when the first oystercatchers of the year are seen and, perhaps more so, heard. On 12 March, the people of the Faroe Islands celebrate Grækarismessa, which means that the oystercatcher has arrived, and summer is just around the corner.

Birds of the Faroe Islands

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The world's largest colony of the European storm-petrel breeds on Nólsoy. In the picture above, a bird is ringed and measured

Tjaldur (the Oystercatcher), the Faroese national bird, comes to the Faroe Islands in early March

Read the brochure ‘Birds of the Faroe Islands’ (available from tourist offices) for a wealth of useful information about bird species, breeding times, when and where the birds can be seen and much more.

Photo: Ólavur Frederiksen