Greenland's Arctic Wildlife, Flora and Fauna

Perhaps the most important aspect of Greenland's wildlife is its marine life. It is abundant and is largely responsible for the development of the country's popuation. During the late summer and early autumn whales swim close to the coast and are sometimes seen in the harbours. There are many different species of whales in Greenlandic waters including the two largest, the blue whale and the fin whale. Humpback whales, minke whales, narwhales, beluga or white whales, sperm whales, pilot whales and Greenland whales are among the other species here. Seals are also abundant. An estimated two million seals of various species live in Greenlandic waters. Walruses are primarily seen in north and east Greenland.

Large mammals also occur on land in Greenland. More than 3,000 musk oxen live in the area around Kangerlussuaq Airport and some of them can be seen in the immediate surroundings. This is the largest wild population in the world. Herds can also be found on the East Coast in the Scoresbysund area. Tours around Kangerlussuaq tour of the area will most likely include an encounter with these large, sedate animals. Reindeer live all over the ice-free parts of Greenland, and you may be lucky to see a herd. Reindeer hide is very insulating, and if you decide to go on a dog-sledge tour you will have the chance to dress in clothes made from this material. Polar bears live predominantly in north and east Greenland but also come to south Greenland, drifting on the field ice. Encounters with polar bears are generally rare, but precautions should be taken in areas where they are known to occur.

Small mammals in Greenland include Arctic foxes, hares, lemmings and ermine. Foxes may be seen quite regularly around inhabited areas where they have developed a taste for scraps. Most of these small animals change the colour of their coat according to the season, and can blend into their surroundings superbly.

Greenland is also home to a wide variety of seabirds, and some very spectacular cliff colonies can be seen on the coasts around Liverpool Land and Uummannaq. On land, you may see ptarmigan and snow buntings.

The northeastern part of Greenland is a protected national park. With a size larger than England and France put together, it's the largest national park in the world. Polar bears, walruses, reindeer, musk oxen and a growing stock of wolves live here along with smaller animals and many bird species.