Northern Diver
Gavia immer
The Northern Diver was another bird we were really hoping to see in Iceland, and it certainly did not disappoint. There is something very special about watching these birds on the quiet Icelandic lakes, surrounded by such dramatic scenery.
Their striking appearance makes them hard to miss, especially when they are in breeding plumage. The bold black and white patterning, red eyes and beautiful markings on the head and neck make the Northern Diver one of those birds that you can watch for ages.
We had some lovely encounters during our travels, watching them swimming quietly across the water, diving for food and occasionally calling across the lake. That haunting, wild call carries a long way over the water and seems perfectly suited to the Icelandic landscape.
