Rare Walrus Sighting on Reykjanes Peninsula

2026-02-17 - 10:17

A walrus was photographed on a beach on the Reykjanes Peninsula yesterday, in what is considered to be an uncommon sight in Icelandic waters. As reported by RÚV, the animal was observed resting on an unspecified stretch of coastline on the peninsula’s southern shore. (Follow the link to see Hafþór’s photographs yourself, as published in the original article by the news agency.) What's the Story? Walrus photographed on a beach on the Reykjanes Peninsula, images captured by Hafþór Óðinsson Sightings of walruses rare in Iceland; previous appearances reported in Sauðárkrókur and Arnarfjörður in 2023 Photographs and video published by RÚV, with additional images on the photographer’s Instagram page A Walrus' specimen from the Icelandic Phallological Museum. Photo: APK. Wikimedia. Rare Coastal Visitor Photographer Hafþór Óðinsson captured images and video of the walrus lying on the beach. According to Hafþór, the animal appeared fatigued, occasionally lifting its head and looking around before settling again. Walruses are not commonly seen around Iceland, though individuals have occasionally come ashore in recent years. In 2023, a walrus appeared three times in one week at Sauðárkrókur in North Iceland. Another was reported in Arnarfjörður in the Westfjords. Iceland’s coastal waters are home to a range of marine mammals, including seals, dolphins and several species of whale. Harbour seals and grey seals are regularly observed along the shoreline, while migratory whale species such as humpback and minke whales are frequently sighted offshore. Although walruses historically occurred around Iceland, modern sightings remain infrequent. Further wildlife and nature coverage is available via Iceland Review. Atlantic Ocean at Reykjanestá. Photo: Wikimedia. CC.