Rohkunborri National Park

Birds

Rohkunborri National Park is home to a diverse array of bird species, many of which are well adapted to the cold, mountainous, and forested landscapes. The park provides an important habitat for raptors, waterfowl, and other northern birds.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
A powerful bird of prey, the golden eagle soars over the park’s rugged mountains, scanning for hares, grouse, and even young reindeer. It is one of Norway’s most majestic raptors, with keen eyesight and formidable talons.

Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus)
The largest of the falcon species, the gyrfalcon is a rare but awe-inspiring predator in Rohkunborri. It preys primarily on ptarmigans and other birds, using incredible speed and precision to hunt.

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
A master of seasonal camouflage, the willow ptarmigan has brown plumage in summer and pure white feathers in winter. It thrives in the park’s tundra and boreal forest, foraging for buds, leaves, and berries.

Northern Hawk Owl (Surnia ulula)
Unlike most owls, the northern hawk owl is active during the day, hunting rodents and small birds. Its sharp eyesight and swift flight make it an exceptional predator in the park’s open woodlands.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
One of the largest owls in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl is a powerful nocturnal hunter with striking orange eyes and massive talons. It preys on mammals, birds, and even other raptors.

Rough-legged Buzzard (Buteo lagopus)
A migratory raptor, the rough-legged buzzard breeds in Arctic regions like Rohkunborri. It is known for its hovering hunting technique, searching for lemmings and other small mammals in open landscapes.

Common Raven (Corvus corax)
An intelligent and adaptable bird, the common raven is frequently seen throughout the park. It scavenges carrion, steals eggs, and even plays in the air currents above the cliffs.

Black-throated Loon (Gavia arctica)
This striking waterbird nests in the park’s lakes and rivers, diving underwater to catch fish. Its eerie calls echo across the remote wilderness, adding to the park’s untouched atmosphere.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
A close relative of the bald eagle, the white-tailed eagle is one of Europe’s largest birds of prey. It primarily feeds on fish and waterfowl, often seen soaring over lakes and fjords.

Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus)
During the colder months, flocks of Bohemian waxwings visit the park to feed on berries. Their soft, pastel plumage and striking black masks make them one of the most beautiful songbirds in the region.

Rohkunborri National Park’s diverse and rugged landscapes provide a perfect sanctuary for both mammals and birds, offering incredible opportunities to witness Arctic wildlife in its natural habitat.

Rohkunborri National Park, located in Norway near the Swedish border, is a remote and pristine wilderness characterized by dramatic mountains, deep valleys, and untouched forests. The park is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife, thriving in its subarctic and alpine environments. Below are some of the more popular mammal species found within the park.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
A secretive and elusive predator, the Eurasian lynx roams the forests and rugged terrain of the park. It is Norway’s largest wild cat, recognizable by its tufted ears, short tail, and thick fur. The lynx primarily hunts roe deer and smaller mammals like hares and rodents.

Wolverine (Gulo gulo)
One of the most powerful carnivores relative to its size, the wolverine is a rare but formidable resident of Rohkunborri. Known for its strength and endurance, it is capable of taking down prey much larger than itself, including reindeer weakened by the harsh conditions.

Eurasian Elk (Alces alces)
Known as moose in North America, the Eurasian elk is the largest deer species in the park. These massive herbivores thrive in the boreal forests, feeding on twigs, bark, and aquatic plants. Their long legs help them traverse deep snow in winter.

Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)
Wild reindeer roam the open tundra and alpine landscapes of the park, often forming herds. These iconic animals are well adapted to the harsh northern climate, with thick fur and specialized hooves that help them navigate snow-covered terrain.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
A highly adaptable predator, the red fox is commonly seen throughout Rohkunborri. It preys on small mammals, birds, and carrion, but also supplements its diet with berries and insects. Its thick fur provides insulation against the freezing temperatures.

Arctic Hare (Lepus timidus)
The Arctic hare is a master of camouflage, changing its fur color from brown in summer to white in winter to blend into its surroundings. These fast and agile creatures are an important prey species for predators like lynxes and foxes.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
Though less frequently seen, brown bears occasionally roam the park’s forests and mountains. These powerful omnivores feed on berries, fish, and small mammals, and they hibernate during the coldest months in dens hidden among the rocks.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
Thriving in the park’s rivers and lakes, the European otter is a skilled swimmer that hunts fish, amphibians, and crustaceans. With its dense, water-repellent fur and webbed feet, it is perfectly adapted to aquatic life in cold environments.

Stoat (Mustela erminea)
Also known as the ermine in its white winter coat, the stoat is a small but fierce predator. It preys on voles, mice, and birds, using its speed and agility to capture its quarry. Its fur turns white in winter, providing effective camouflage.

Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus)
Similar to the Arctic hare, the mountain hare inhabits higher elevations and also undergoes seasonal color changes. It is a vital part of the park’s ecosystem, serving as food for predators like foxes and lynxes.