The wild Greenlandic fauna
We call Greenland Kalaallit Nunaat, the Greenlanders' Land.
However, in reality it is just as much the Wildlife's Land.
The world's largest island contains a wealth of fascinating
species of animal that have all adapted to the Arctic climate both
on land and in the water.
Spectacular Arctic land and sea mammals
The polar bear is
the biggest predator and perhaps the essence of the term wildlife.
The white polar bear adorns Greenland's national coat of arms as
the symbol for an extensive country that is also home to other
distinctive animals such as the musk ox, the narwhal and the walrus.
Along with the reindeer, the musk ox is one
of the land mammals which travellers have the greatest chance of
seeing, especially in the vicinity of
Kangerlussuaq. The polar bear is a rare visitor to inhabited
areas, and is often seen in remote hunting grounds in North- and
East Greenland. Wolves, arctic foxes, mountain hares and other
small land mammals are also found, but are not often seen close to
civilisation. Around 60 species of bird breed in Greenland,
including the
white-tailed eagle.
Whales can be seen all over Greenland,
particularly during the summer months. It is most common to see fin
whales, humpback whales and minke whales, in addition to which
species such as the bowhead whale, blue whale and sperm whale also
frequent Greenlandic waters.
Man and wildlife in Greenland
The land mammals immigrated, just like humans, from Canada and
Alaska several thousand years ago. Both land and sea mammals have
always been an important resource for Greenlanders. The animals
have played a key role for their means of existence and in terms of
their philosophy of life.
Today hunting is an important source of income for only a handful
of Greenlanders. For the vast majority it is simply a hobby.
Sustainable trophy hunting of animals such as musk oxen and seals is open to tourists at certain places in
Greenland. The hunt takes place with qualified guides who ensure a
proper hunt where nothing goes to waste.