Séjour ornithologique en Islande, du lac Myvatn à la réserve naturelle de Floï

Iceland has long been famous for its volcanic activity and glaciers (having the biggest glacier in Europe); which is why it is called the land of ice and fire. To European birders it is also very famous for its three breeding bird species of American origin; Great Northern Diver, Harlequin Duck and Barrows Goldeneye and for one Arctic bird; Brünnichs Guillemot. Iceland is also famous for the occurrence of vagrants, but its situation in the North Atlantic makes it an excellent place to look for rarities coming from both North America and Europe.Birdwatching is easy from spring to autumn, as most roads are clear of snow. The ideal period for a foreign birdwatcher to visit the country is between the15th of June and the 15th of July. During this time all breeding birds have reached the island and are very obvious as they are defending territories. Furthermore, all ducks are still in breeding plumage and are easy to see.
Alain Jouffray visited the north and west part of the island from the 14th of June to the 24th of June 2007, and we propose here his report.
This article is presented in partnership with OiseauxEthologie, a list owned by André Boussard.