Skarvan and Roltdalen National Park

Birds

The diverse landscapes of Skarvan and Roltdalen National Park provide an important habitat for a wide variety of bird species. From large birds of prey to smaller forest dwellers, the park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
One of Europe’s most formidable birds of prey, the golden eagle soars above the park’s mountains and valleys, hunting hares, birds, and even small deer. Its keen eyesight and powerful talons make it a top predator.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
Also known as the sea eagle, this massive raptor is Norway’s largest bird of prey. It is commonly seen near rivers and lakes, where it feeds on fish and waterfowl.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
This impressive owl, with its large orange eyes and distinctive ear tufts, is a nocturnal predator found in the park’s forested regions. It preys on mammals, birds, and even other owls.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A powerful and agile hunter, the northern goshawk is frequently spotted gliding through the park’s woodlands. It hunts a variety of prey, including birds, squirrels, and rabbits.

Common Raven (Corvus corax)
One of the most intelligent birds in the world, the common raven thrives in Skarvan and Roltdalen. Known for its problem-solving skills and complex vocalizations, this large black bird often scavenges for food.

Black Grouse (Lyrurus tetrix)
A striking game bird, the black grouse is famous for its elaborate courtship displays, where males perform energetic “lekking” dances to attract females. It inhabits forest edges and open meadows.

Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
The largest species of grouse in Europe, the capercaillie is an impressive bird that dwells in the coniferous forests of the park. Males are known for their dramatic mating displays and deep, booming calls.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
These majestic swans migrate to the park’s lakes and wetlands during the breeding season. Known for their loud, trumpet-like calls, they form strong lifelong pair bonds.

Grey-headed Woodpecker (Picus canus)
A distinctive woodpecker with a greenish body and grey head, this bird is commonly found in the park’s old-growth forests, where it feeds on insects hidden beneath tree bark.

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
Perfectly adapted to the cold, the willow ptarmigan changes its plumage with the seasons—sporting white feathers in winter and brown ones in summer. It blends seamlessly into its surroundings to evade predators.

Skarvan and Roltdalen National Park, located in central Norway, is a vast and pristine wilderness characterized by ancient forests, mountainous terrain, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to a variety of mammals that thrive in its boreal landscape, offering visitors a chance to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitats.

Eurasian Elk (Alces alces)
Also known as the moose, the Eurasian elk is the largest land mammal in Norway. These solitary animals are commonly seen grazing in wetlands and forested areas of the park, particularly in the early mornings and evenings.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
This elusive and powerful predator is one of Europe’s most iconic wild cats. The Eurasian lynx is known for its tufted ears, sharp eyesight, and stealthy hunting techniques, preying primarily on roe deer and small mammals in the park’s dense woodlands.

Wolverine (Gulo gulo)
A rare and highly elusive carnivore, the wolverine is known for its immense strength and endurance. This species roams the park’s rugged terrain, scavenging carrion and hunting small prey, though sightings are infrequent due to their secretive nature.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
A highly adaptable species, the red fox is frequently spotted throughout Skarvan and Roltdalen. With its striking reddish fur and bushy tail, this intelligent predator feeds on rodents, birds, and berries found within the park.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
One of the largest predators in Europe, the brown bear occasionally roams the outskirts of the park. These majestic animals primarily feed on berries, insects, and small mammals and tend to avoid human encounters.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
A common sight in the park’s forested areas, roe deer are small and agile herbivores that graze on leaves, shoots, and grass. Their reddish-brown summer coat turns grayish in winter, offering excellent camouflage.

Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)
The wild reindeer of Norway are a symbol of the Arctic tundra. In Skarvan and Roltdalen, these animals migrate across open landscapes, foraging for lichens and mosses during the harsh winters.

European Badger (Meles meles)
A nocturnal and burrowing mammal, the European badger digs extensive tunnel systems called setts. It feeds on a varied diet of insects, small animals, and plant matter within the park.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
This semi-aquatic mammal thrives in the park’s rivers and lakes. With its sleek body and webbed feet, the European otter is an excellent swimmer, preying on fish and amphibians in freshwater environments.

Mountain Hare (Lepus timidus)
An expert in camouflage, the mountain hare changes color with the seasons—sporting a brown coat in summer and a white one in winter. These fast and agile creatures are commonly seen darting through the undergrowth.