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Overview
Curiously situated on a southward pointing extension of Norway between Finland and Russia, this park and its surroundings consist of lakes, pools and swamps, forest and scrub.
The forest here is the westernmost point of the Siberian Taiga and the largest area of virgin forest in Norway.
Birds
Notable Species
Breeding birds include divers, Whooper Swan, Taiga Bean Goose and Smew around the lakes and river, Common Crane, Red-necked Phalarope, Bar-tailed Godwit, Spotted Redshank and Broad-billed Sandpiper in the marshes.
The forests have Great Grey Owl and Northern Hawk Owl, Bohemian Waxwing, Pine Grosbeak and Siberian Tit.
Raptors of the area include White-tailed Eagle, Rough-legged Buzzard, Osprey and Gyr Falcon.
Check-list
Birds you can see here include:
Red-throated Diver, Black-throated Diver, Whooper Swan, Taiga Bean Goose, Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, Common Goldeneye, Smew, White-tailed Eagle, Rough-legged Buzzard, Osprey, Gyr Falcon, Western Capercaillie, Common Crane, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Jack Snipe, Bar-tailed Godwit, Spotted Redshank, Common Redshank, Wood Sandpiper, Red-necked Phalarope, Northern Hawk Owl, Great Grey Owl, Short-eared Owl, Black Woodpecker, Three-toed Woodpecker, Bohemian Waxwing, Sedge Warbler, Arctic Warbler, Siberian Tit, Siberian Jay, Brambling, Northern Redpoll, Arctic Redpoll, Parrot Crossbill, Pine Grosbeak, Snow Bunting, Rustic Bunting
Other Wildlife
Moose, Elk and semi-domesticated Reindeer are found in the park as well as Brown Bear and Wolverine.
Site Information
History and Use
The zone of transition between eastern and western plant species was a major factor in the designation of this area as a national park.
Areas of Interest
To do
Access and Facilities
The park is most easily reached by road from Kirkenes on Varanger Fjord south to Gjokasen.
Cabin accommodation is available within the park and there is a hostel at nearby Skogfoss.
Contact Details
To do
External Links
Content and images originally posted by Steve
