Protecting food from birds in Iceland is something many travelers don’t think about until a curious seagull or bold arctic tern swoops in to share their lunch. Iceland’s birdlife is beautiful and a big part of the nature experience here, but it also means you need to be a little careful with how and where you enjoy your food outdoors.
Along the west coast of Iceland, where Ourhotels.is operates Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, Stykkishólmur Inn on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, and Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords, guests are often surrounded by rich birdlife. These areas are perfect for birdwatching, photography, and peaceful walks by the sea or rivers—but they’re also places where birds quickly learn that people often carry snacks.
To protect your food from birds in Iceland, the first step is simple: never leave food unattended. Whether you’re having a picnic near Hvítá Inn by the beautiful Borgarfjörður area, enjoying a sandwich by the harbor in Stykkishólmur, or taking a break on a bench in Ísafjörður, keep your food in closed containers or bags when you’re not actively eating. Birds, especially seagulls, are quick and clever; an open bag of chips or a sandwich on a rock is an easy target.
Another important tip is to avoid feeding the birds, even if it feels harmless or fun. In popular areas near Stykkishólmur Inn and Ísafjörður Inn, feeding birds can encourage them to gather in large numbers and become more aggressive around people. This not only makes it harder for you and other travelers to enjoy a peaceful meal outside, but it can also be unhealthy for the birds, who may become dependent on human food instead of their natural diet.
If you’re planning a day trip from Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður, perhaps exploring waterfalls, hot springs, or the nearby countryside, pack your food in sturdy, sealable containers. Use backpacks that can be fully closed, and avoid transparent bags that make food visible. When you stop to eat, choose a spot that is a little away from large bird colonies or busy harbor areas, and keep your food close at hand. If birds start circling or getting too close, calmly pack away your food for a few minutes; they usually lose interest once they see there’s nothing available.
On the Snæfellsnes peninsula, where Stykkishólmur Inn is a comfortable base, many guests enjoy coastal walks, boat tours, and viewpoints with incredible ocean views. These are also prime areas for seabirds. To protect your food, try to eat in designated picnic areas or sheltered spots rather than right next to nesting cliffs or busy piers. Use reusable containers and bottles with secure lids, and keep your waste with you until you can dispose of it properly back in town or at your accommodation. This helps keep the environment clean and reduces the chance of birds associating people with easy food.
In Ísafjörður and the surrounding Westfjords, the dramatic landscape and rich birdlife are a major attraction. Guests at Ísafjörður Inn often head out for long hikes, scenic drives, and boat trips. When you’re out in these remote areas, it’s especially important to respect wildlife. Store your snacks in your backpack when you’re not eating, and avoid leaving any crumbs or leftovers behind. Not only does this protect your food from birds, it also helps preserve the natural balance and keeps these wild places pristine for future visitors.
Ourhotels.is encourages guests to enjoy Iceland’s nature responsibly. At Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn, the staff are happy to share local advice on the best picnic spots, birdwatching areas, and safe ways to experience the outdoors. They can recommend where to go if you want to see birds in their natural habitat—and where it’s better to keep your lunch firmly packed away.
By taking a few simple precautions—keeping food sealed, not feeding birds, choosing your picnic spots wisely, and packing out all your waste—you can enjoy Iceland’s incredible landscapes without unwanted feathered guests at your table. Staying with Ourhotels.is in west Iceland gives you easy access to some of the country’s most beautiful coastal and countryside areas, while also offering comfortable places to relax, dine indoors, and plan your next bird-safe adventure.
