Tjornin Lake Birdlife

Tjörnin is a shallow lake located in the heart of Iceland's capital, Reykjavík, serving as a critical habitat for waterfowl within the urban environment. Despite its central location, the lake hosts between 40 and 50 different bird species, including whooper swans, greylag geese, mallards, and arctic terns. Tjörnin is of particular importance during the winter months, as a section of the lake is artificially kept ice-free using hot geothermal water, ensuring that birds can access food. The lake is surrounded by significant structures, such as the Reykjavík City Hall, which is partially built over the water, and the National Gallery of Iceland. The lake's history is closely tied to the city's development; it was once connected to the sea before being isolated by construction projects in the 19th century. Feeding the ducks remains a popular tradition for both locals and tourists, though it is now recommended to use only species-appropriate food. Tjörnin is not only an ecological sanctuary but also a cultural symbol of the harmonious integration of nature and urban life in Iceland. The adjacent Hljómskálagarður park provides additional green spaces for the local wildlife.

Nearby cities

Reykjavík

Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland, serving as the nation's cultural, economic, and governmental hub.

Kópavogur

Kópavogur is Iceland's second largest city, located directly south of Reykjavík.

Hafnarfjörður

Hafnarfjörður is a port city south of Reykjavík, built on an ancient lava field.

Hafnarfjörður

A charming port town just outside Reykjavík, known as the 'town in the lava' and famous for its Viking heritage and elf folklore.

Keflavík

Keflavík is a town on the Reykjanes Peninsula, part of the Reykjanesbær municipality.

Mosfellsbær

Mosfellsbær is located northeast of Reykjavík, known for its hilly landscape and thermal springs.

Garðabær

Garðabær is a growing town in the Greater Reykjavík area.

Selfoss

Selfoss is the largest service center in southern Iceland, situated on the banks of the Ölfusá River.

Akranes

Akranes is a port town on Iceland's west coast, known for its long fishing tradition and two distinctive lighthouses.

Seltjarnarnes

Seltjarnarnes is a small municipality on a peninsula just west of Reykjavík.

Vestmannaeyjar

Vestmannaeyjar is a town on Heimaey island in the archipelago of the same name off Iceland's south coast.

Blue Lagoon (Grindavík)

Iceland's most famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters.

Grindavík

Grindavík is a fishing town on the south coast of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Hveragerði

Known as the 'Greenhouse Town', it sits on an active geothermal field and is famous for its hot springs and banana cultivation.

Hveragerði

Hveragerði is famous for its high geothermal activity, located about 45 km east of Reykjavík.

History & landmarks

Reykjavík City Hall

Reykjavík City Hall is situated on the banks of Lake Tjörnin.

Hvolsvöllur

A historic town in South Iceland, famous as the heart of the Njál's Saga and a gateway to glaciers.

More places

The Settlement Exhibition

This underground museum in Reykjavík is built around the ruins of a 10th-century Viking longhouse.