Summer of Midnight Sun - Chapter Twelve: Flora and Fauna

Despite sitting just outside of the Arctic Circle, Iceland offers plenty of unique animals and plants that have adapted to the rugged environment much like the people. These unique beings on the edge of the frozen world are a part of one of the most delicate ecosystems on earth, where they are closely intertwined.

Flora

Blue Lupin (Lupinus nootkatensis)

These iconic lupins are a beautiful yet divisive flower brought to Iceland from Alaska. Brought over in the 1970s to combat soil deterioration and promote growth by the Minister of Forestry, tall blue flowers can now be seen all around the countryside. Eventually, they will create soil that is too basic for them to exist, dying away and leaving a healthy layer of soil. Interestingly enough I worked with the grandson of the minister, who's an older man in his own right today.

Moss

If you wanted to describe Iceland as a rock, you'd have to remember the thick layer of moss coating it. Technically a lichen, it has overgrown the coastlines and mountains, growing to several feet deep in some places. Also, a reminder for anyone planning on visiting the country, don't mess with the moss!!! Intentional destruction of moss is considered terrorism within the country (not kidding).

Boreal Birch

Like nothing I've ever seen, these birch trees are a warped miniature version of their southern relatives. They stand just over 2 meters tall and are gnarled, almost bushlike. This monster form provides them benefits in the high wind and stormy climate. This means that birch is largely the only forest cover on the coastlines.

Fauna

Arctic Fox

On the northern side of the country, the arctic fox resides as the largest predator in Iceland. They mostly hunt for mice and birds but are known for their friendly nature with humans.

Sheep

Not native to Iceland, but brought by settlers, sheep took very little time getting accustomed to their new environment. Over the next 1,000 years, the herd would grow until it numbered over 800,000, more than doubling the human population on the island. Seeing a sheep isn't about if in Iceland, it's when.

Sea Birds

If you've ever been sailing you know that buoys act like resting spots. Iceland acts like this on a grand scale for migratory birds across the North Atlantic. My favorites were always the Kria, a small mostly white diver, but I was able to see everything from seagulls to puffins to white-tailed eagles. Definitely, parts of the trip I won't forget.

Fish

Even though I was never out fishing while in Iceland, they're an extremely important part of the local economy and ecosystem. Seals and people compete for the likes of arctic char, cod, shrimp, and more.