Explore the Wildlife of Norway and Finland on Polar Expeditions

Finland and Norway offer some of the most spectacular scenery and wildlife watching opportunities in the world. The Arctic uplands of Norway, the taiga forests, fjords and lakes of Finland all contribute to this stunning wonderland.

The abundance of birdlife in the area is what draws most visitors and joining one of the polar expeditions to this part of the Arctic, particularly in the summer, will not disappoint the avid birdwatcher. Although a visit at any time of the year is well worth the trip, the lead up to summer is when you will see the most action. The breeding birds have arrived and are settling in for the season, nesting and fighting for their own territory in which to make their home for the duration of the season. You are much more likely to see the less common species at this time of the year, and it is difficult not to be impressed by the abundant range of birdlife that flourishes in this region.

Polar expeditions to Norway and Finland

This special part of the planet is made up of diverse environments and each one makes the ideal habitat for many different species of wildlife. When choosing one of the polar expeditions to this area, it is important to look at the focus of the trip and choose the one that best suits your interests. It is reliably easy to travel through this area so it is worth spending a week or two exploring. However, if time is short, there are many shorter bird watching options available too.

An abundance of birds

Imagine walking through the forests of Finland early in the morning listening to the different bird calls, or watching the birds that settle near the sea on the windy cliffs and small islands in the northern part of Norway. Although the aim of polar expeditions is not necessarily to spot as many species as possible, you will unduly make a huge contribution to the list of birds on your wish list. The long hours of daylight in this area during the spring and summer months mean that there is ample opportunity to explore and encounter the wildlife at different times of the day. This greatly increases your chances of seeing more species as they go about their fascinating daily rituals.

The list of birds residing in this region is long and varied. The fjords of western Norway are home to one of Europe's most rare species of bird, the white-backed Woodpecker, and you will also be able to see Black-throated Diver, Long-tailed Duck, Golden Eagle, Little Bunting and the Gyrfalcon, to name just a few.

The mostought after species on a trip that includes a visit to Finland is the enigmatic owl. The area of ​​Oulu is well known for its breeding owls, including the Great Gray, Ural, Eagle, Pygmy and Hawk. Spend a few days exploring the forests and you are bound to catch sight of some of these wonderful birds. There are more than just the owls in the forests, however, and the Black Grouse, Cappercaillie and several other birds can also be seen. Finland's other main birding area is the wetland area of ​​Liminka Bay, where you will have the best sightings of some of the area's famous water birds. This is an important nesting area for many migratory birds and there is a good chance of seeing Cranes, Whooper Swans and the less common Pallid Harrier and Citrine Wagtail.

The dense taiga forests of Finland also have much to offer the bird enthusiast and a holiday to this part of the Arctic would not be complete without a visit to these majestic forests. The forests are made up of spruce trees thickly covered in mosses and lichen, pine trees and numerous other flora varieties. Home to a diverse range of fauna, too, you may be lucky enough to spot an elk or reindeer while exploring the forests.

An experienced naturalist guide should lead your chosen polar expeditions. These guides are invaluable on the trip; they have all the local information at their fingertips and have the knowledge and expertise to help make the most of your experience.