Wildlife of Skjálfandi Bay

Blue Whale diving near Husavik

Sailing in Skjálfandi Bay gives an opportunity to experience the diverse wildlife of the area. From the settlement in Iceland the Bay has provided the people of the area with plenty of fish on the table.

But the fish not only attracts the human but is also extremely appealing to marine mammals and seabirds.

Occasionally one can witness how whales, birds and fish compete at the sea surface for their share of the cake. On North Sailing’s tours, the whales of course, draw the most attention but the colourful birdlife can sometimes surprise the visitors of the Bay.

 

Whales of Skjálfandi

Click on the pictures to learn more about the Whales of Skjálfandi Bay.

Birds of Skjálfandi Bay

Click on the pictures to learn more about the birds of Skjálfandi Bay

Whale sounds

Below are three whale species that have been recorded by the scientists at the research centre. Click a whale to listen and learn more.

The humpback whale

The humpback whale is one of the most common whale species in Iceland and many have heard of the famous “song of the humpback whale”.

White Beaked Dolphin

The white beaked dolphin is the most common dolphin species in Icelandic waters. Click to check out two sounds examples that were recorded in Skjálfandi Bay.

Blue whale

The majestic blue whale is an occasional visitor in Skjálfandi Bay. Here is a recording of the Blue whale. Click to listen.

Illustrations © 2017 Jón Baldur Hlíðberg www.fauna.is