Breeding distribution

The distribution of breeding birds varies enormously. Some species breed in nearly all parts of Iceland, such as ptarmigan (Lagopus muta) and snow bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis). Ringed plover (Charadrius hiaticula), European golden plover (Pluvialis apricaria), dunlin (Calidris alpina) and meadow pipit (Anthus pratensis) are also widespread and breed widely in the highland. Other species are widespread in highland regions, such as pink-footed goose (Anser brachyrhynchus) or lowland regions, such as redshank (Tringa totanus). Some species breed almost exclusively in coastal areas, such as oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus). Finally, some species either breed in comparatively few but often staggeringly large colonies, such as northern gannet (Morus bassanus) and puffin (Fratercula arctica) or have a very limited breeding distribution in Iceland, like Barrow's goldeneye (Bucephala islandica).