Fascinating Birds Found in Iceland with Dr. Mummi Gudmundsson – Ep.9

I had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Guðmundur A. Guðmundsson, who has a MSc and PhD degree in Ecology, and is a researcher at the Icelandic Institute of Natural History. During the interview you will hear me say Mummi when I speak to Dr. Guðmundsson. It is a nickname commonly used in Iceland for men with the name Guðmundur.

Some of the topics I discussed with Mummi during our interview for the All Things Iceland podcast include the fascinating birds that can be found in Iceland, the connection between birds and Icelandic culture, and the best time to see birds migrating to the country. It was an enlightening conversation and I hope you enjoy listening to it.

Questions I asked Mummi:

1. What sparked your interest in studying birds?
2. What is your role at the Institute of Icelandic Natural History?
3. I read that about 350 species of birds have been recorded in Iceland. Why is it that so many birds are finding their way to this island? How many of them are nesting here?
4. Are their birds that are most commonly found in Iceland?
5. Is there a connection between birds and Icelandic culture?
6. Is there a best season or specific months to go bird watching in Iceland?
7. Do you recommend any areas in Iceland for people to watch birds?
8. Have you seen any effect on bird migration and nesting due to climate change?
9. Are there any birds that you have observed in Iceland that have strange or fascinating habits?
10. Do you have a favorite bird that you like to watch or study?
11. What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase (I like to ask this during all of my interviews. It can be related to birds but it doesn’t have to be)?

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Goða skemmtun og sjáumst fljótlega (Enjoy and see you soon)!