There is an exceptional abundance of animal species in Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. There are varying habitats; from forests and mires to fell heaths. Each habitat has different species. Species change abruptly at the edge of a forest. Hikers will notice this especially in early summer when birds are starting to build their nests.

A male Ptarmigan on the top of the fell. Photo: Seija Olkkonen

Snow Bunting and  Other Birds

The Snow Bunting (Plecttrophenax nivalis), the Emblem Bird of Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is the first bird to come back home early in spring. During summer, the park boasts 150 bird species. In quiet of winter is only disrupted by the lively song of the Ptarmigan (Lagopus mutus) in the open fells, the Willow Grouse (Lagopus lagopus) in the mountain birch forests and the Siberian Jays (Perisoreus infaustus), Crossbills (Loxia) and Siberian Tits (Paras cinctus) of the forests.
 

The Snow Bunting (Plecttrophenax nivalis) inhabits the treeless fell uplands. Of Finland's passerine species it is the best adapted to arctic conditions. It dwells by the Arctic Sea and on fell tops. The Snow Bunting and the Wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe) are typical of scree rock areas. The Snow Bunting is one of the first birds to return north in the spring and its song can be heard on the fell tops in early June. Snow Buntings make their nests in-between boulders. In August they gather in groups on the lush brook banks to feed before flying south. They bring the now quiet fell landscape to life with their sporadic bursts into the air.

The Bear and Small Mammals

Of the large carnivores, the Bear (Ursus arctos) is a permanent resident. The Wolverine (Gulo gulo), Lynx (Lynx lynx) and Wolf (Canis lupus) on the other hand are quite rare. Of Finland's large mammals the Moose (Alces alces) in habits thepark. There are exceptionally many small mammals in the park.

An ermine (Mustela erminea) on the fells. Photo: Maarit Kyöstilä