Placed along the north Norwegian coast, Andøya is a 57 km long and 15 km wide island situated north of the Lofoten archipelago. Andøya is uniquely suited to host an incredibly rich bird and wildlife population. A wide variety of habitats, from vast marshlands to shallow coastal waters, deep oceans, and high mountain peaks, make this island one of Norway’s finest wildlife destinations!

 

Deep Ocean
The waters off Andøya’s west coast rise from deep oceanic trenches known as the “Eggakanten.” This upwelling, combined with the proximity of the continental shelfedge to the island, makes Andøya one of the best places in Norway for whale watching. Sperm whales, orcas, and humpback whales are frequently observed, and your chances of seeing whales here are among the best in the world. Specialized whale-watching tours provide opportunities to observe these giants in their natural habitat.

 

Shallow Coastal Waters
The shallow coastal waters around Andøya are teeming with life. These nutrient-rich waters provide excellent feeding grounds for seabirds such as gannets, puffins, guillemots, and razorbills, as well as a wide variety of duck species, including eider ducks. The constant mixing of sea currents brings in a plethora of marine organisms, creating a vibrant ecosystem. Walking along the shores or kayaking in these waters offers a close-up view of seabirds diving for fish and the chance to see seals and otters thriving in their natural habitat.

 

Intertidal Zones
The intertidal zones, where the ocean meets the land, are especially fascinating. During low tide, vast stretches of the seabed are exposed, revealing a hidden world of marine life. Here, you can find an abundance of starfish, sea urchins, crabs, and a variety of mollusks. Bird species such as oystercatchers, various sandpipers, and turnstones can be seen foraging for food along the shore. You can also observe the white-tailed eagle -Norway’s largest bird of prey. Northern Norway has the highest population density of these impressive raptors. These areas are crucial feeding grounds for wading birds and offer excellent opportunities for close observation and photography.

 

Rocky Shores
The rocky shores of Andøya provide habitats for hardy marine creatures that can withstand crashing waves and often stormy conditions. These areas are home to barnacles, mussels, and various types of seaweed, which in turn attract different bird species. Cormorants and shags can often be seen perched on the rocks, drying theirwings or diving for fish. The rocky coastlines are also ideal spots for watching the dramatic interactions between land and sea. Look closer, and you may spot the hardy purple sandpiper dodging waves while searching for food.

 

Sandy Beaches
Andøya’s sandy beaches, such as those at Bleik, Nordmela, and Sørmela, are important nesting and resting sites for various sandpiper species, ringed plovers, and oystercatchers. These beaches also support a variety of specialized plants adapted to the harsh, saline environment. During the summer months, the dunes and beaches come alive with the activity of nesting birds and blooming coastal flora, providing a unique and beautiful landscape for exploration.

 

Wetlands
The island’s vast mires, or peatlands—particularly around the Ramsar site of Nordmela—are crucial for breeding and migratory birds. In fact, half of Andøya is peatland, making it one of the largest mire sites in all of Norway. Species like the red-necked phalarope, Eurasian curlew, Slavonian grebe, and short-eared owl can be found here. The wetlands are also home to a diverse range of northern mire plant life, such as sphagnum mosses and horsetails. Peatlands and wetlands are extremely species-rich and are often the last true wilderness areas in the world, also serving as long-term carbon storage and water regulators when undrained.

 

Mountains
Andøya’s rugged mountains, such as Måtinden and Kvasstinden, offer breathtaking vistas and serve as habitats for golden eagles and ptarmigans. While hiking these peaks, visitors can experience the stark beauty of alpine flora and fauna and perhaps catch a glimpse of a hunting golden eagle.

 

Forests
The forests of Andøya, although sparse, provide important habitats for a variety ofbird species and small mammals. These areas are home to the willow ptarmigan, black grouse, and Eurasian jay, as well as mammals like the red fox and mountain hare. The forests also feature a rich variety of lichens and mosses, adding to their ecological importance. While blueberry-bearing forests are natural here, you will also observe many pine plantations. In fall, our forests are also excellent hunting grounds for mushroom lovers.

 

Farmlands
The cultivated farmlands of Andøya are a patchwork of fields and pastures that attract large flocks of migratory geese, including the pink-footed goose and barnaclegoose. These areas also provide foraging grounds for various passerines and waders, making them excellent spots for birdwatching, especially during migration periods.

By experiencing these diverse habitats, visitors can gain a profound appreciation for Andøya’s unique ecological tapestry and the incredible variety of life it supports. The name Andøya literally translates to "Duck Island", and a visit will leave you in no doubt about Andøya’s quality as a birding and wildlife destination!