Bird watching IN NORWAY

Long-tailed Skua  -  A stunning bird.
Tekstboks: Like other inland areas of the county, Karasjok has an interesting bird life that is well worth the time in trying to find. Once again we are faced with a large area of what most of us would class as unspoiled nature. The area that I will concentrate on is called Iddjajavri and lies due north near the neighbouring borough of Porsanger.  Both Red and Black-throated Diver have been recorded in this area while dabbling ducks are represented with Mallard, Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, with the latter two being the more numerous. Tufted Duck can be found, as can Greater Scaup but it is the Tufted that is the more abundant. As soon as the ice starts to melt on the lakes, Long-tailed Duck, Common Scoter and Velvet Scoter leave their coastal habitat and head inland. On arrival they are often meet by Common Goldeneye.  During good rodent years there can be Rough-legged Buzzard and Hen Harrier in the area, and keep a look out for Golden Eagle. Most of commoner waders can be found, if not in great numbers. European Golden Plover, Ruff and  Bar-tailed Godwit are amongst the commonest while other species such as Spotted Redshank, Greenshank, Wood Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper vary in numbers from year to year. Like other localities, Red-necked Phalaropes are a common sight on the many small ponds and lakes. During good rodent years both Long-tailed Skua and Short-eared Owl can be seen.  Wooded areas can produce some interesting species. A species often sought after by visiting birders is the Three-toed Woodpecker so keep a lookout. Tree Pipit can also be seen but it is not as common as the Meadow Pipit that can also be seen in woodland habitat. The birch woodlands are also home for  Redwing, Willow Warbler, Brambling and Redpoll as well as more arctic species such as Bohemian Waxwing and Pine Grossbeak. There has also been one or two sightings of Arctic Warbler during the past few years. Away from the woodlands and into more open habitat look for such species as Bluethroat and Great Grey Shrike and Lapland Longspur. How To Get There:  Follow route E6 north towards Lakselv.  At Nattvatnstua you will find lakes on both sides of the main road. This area is always worth checking. Click here for map

Karasjok

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