Over the past century, improvements in transport and increasing globalisation have led to a significant rise in international travel and trade. As a result, many species of plants and animals have been introduced to areas beyond their natural ranges, including places they could not previously reach because of geographical or biological barriers. These introductions have occurred both intentionally and accidentally.
Non-native species can bring benefits to people and are widely used in agriculture, horticulture, forestry and as ornamental plants. However, some species can threaten biodiversity in their new environments, particularly if they become invasive. Invasive non-native species can also cause significant environmental and economic damage and pose risks to human health.
Under Iceland's Nature Conservation Act, a distinction is made between non-native species and invasive non-native species. Importing either requires a permit from the Nature Conservation Agency under Article 63 of the Nature Conservation Act. More information about importing living non-native species is available on our import permit information page.
International cooperation
The North European and Baltic Network on Invasive Alien Species (NOBANIS) is a collaborative initiative aimed at preventing and reducing the impacts of invasive non-native species. It covers marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments and works to make information about non-native species accessible through a network of online databases.
The Natural Science Institute of Iceland participates in NOBANIS on behalf of Iceland.
For more information, visit the NOBANIS website or the Natural Science Institute of Iceland.
What should you do if a non-native wild animal is found in Iceland?
Several authorities may be involved when a non-native wild animal is found in Iceland. A response plan outlines who should be notified and what steps should be taken.
The plan applies to wild animals belonging to species that are not part of Iceland's established wild animal populations. It does not cover birds, stranded whales or polar bears arriving in Iceland, as separate response procedures apply to the latter two. Mink and rats are also excluded, even though they are not native to Iceland.
How to report a sighting
If you encounter a non-native wild animal in Iceland, please report it to the Icelandic Food and Veterinary Authority (MAST) using one of the following methods:
Phone: +354 530 4800
Online: Submit a report through the MAST website
Email: mast@mast.is
Import permits for non-native species
Importing or releasing living non-native species in Iceland is prohibited without a permit from the Nature Conservation Agency.
This requirement does not apply to livestock or non-native plant species traditionally used in horticulture, grassland cultivation, agriculture, land restoration or forestry, unless their import is specifically prohibited by regulation.