Birdwatching shelter near the Eider duck colony
Between the end of May and August, a large colony of Common Eider ducks nests around our kennel. Barnacle geese have joined them in recent years, and if you're lucky or patient enough, you might even encounter a King Eider duck. Birds try to nest near the cages because dogs cannot get them and at the same time still serve as a good defense against Arctic foxes. However, Arctic foxes can still often be seen in the vicinity of the colony during this period, as well as various gulls and, of course, reindeers. Snow Bunting often nest under the roof of the big house, delighting us with trills unusual for the Arctic. And watch your head - often you accidentally step into the territory of small fearless Arctic terns!
If you want to watch bird life for a long time and have the opportunity to shelter from the weather while staying close to the colony, Svalbard Villmarkssenter offers expedition igloos for rent, standing right next to the kennel.
We are on the edge of the safe zone, so you can reach us from the city without carrying a weapon, and at the same time, dogs provide protection from polar bears, if suddenly the king of the Arctic does decide to wander so close.