Spitsbergen Best Trips for Wildlife in February

February in Spitsbergen remains deep within the polar night, but the light begins to return gradually toward the end of the month. The cold Arctic wilderness continues to be an incredible environment for wildlife enthusiasts, with fewer visitors and a raw, untouched landscape that provides opportunities to observe some of the planet’s most resilient creatures. The serenity of this time of year offers an unparalleled opportunity for intimate wildlife encounters, without the large tourist crowds seen in the warmer months.

Polar bears remain one of the primary attractions for wildlife lovers visiting Spitsbergen in February. These magnificent animals are the kings of the Arctic, and while they can be elusive, with the help of skilled local guides, sightings are possible. Expeditions on snowmobiles or dog sleds often venture along the icy coastline, where polar bears hunt seals near the water’s edge. These excursions require careful planning and adherence to safety protocols to ensure both the travelers’ and the bears' well-being.

Reindeer are another iconic species of Spitsbergen, and February is an excellent time to spot them. Despite the harsh conditions, Svalbard reindeer are active and can be found foraging for food beneath the snow. These animals are relatively easy to observe, often seen near settlements or wandering across the frozen tundra. The reindeer in Spitsbergen are smaller and stockier than their mainland cousins, having adapted to the extreme Arctic environment. Their winter movements are a reminder of how life in the Arctic continues, even in the harshest months.

Birdwatchers visiting Spitsbergen in February will be on the lookout for the Svalbard rock ptarmigan, one of the few birds that remain during the winter months. The ptarmigans’ winter plumage is pure white, allowing them to blend perfectly into the snowy landscape. Although they can be hard to spot, guided snowshoeing trips into the tundra can increase your chances of encountering these fascinating birds. Watching them scuttle through the snow in search of food is a rewarding sight for those with an eye for Arctic birdlife.

Seals, both ringed and bearded, continue to be active around Spitsbergen in February. They can be found basking on ice floes or emerging from breathing holes in the sea ice. Seal-watching trips, often combined with other wildlife tours, take visitors into the fjords, where seals are frequently spotted. These marine mammals are essential prey for polar bears, making their sightings all the more exciting for those interested in the Arctic food chain.

Foxes are also active in February, with Arctic foxes roaming the snowy landscape in search of food. These small, resourceful predators have adapted remarkably well to the cold, and their white winter coats make them difficult to spot in the snow. Fox-tracking tours offer a great chance to learn about these creatures, with guides helping visitors track their movements across the frozen terrain. Arctic foxes are known for their opportunistic scavenging, sometimes following polar bears in the hopes of feeding on the remains of a kill.

Marine wildlife tours in February are limited due to the heavy ice, but some brave boat operators still take adventurous travelers into the frozen waters surrounding Spitsbergen. While whale sightings are uncommon in winter, orcas or other marine mammals may be seen on rare occasions. The beauty of the icy fjords, however, makes the journey worthwhile, offering a stunning backdrop for any wildlife encounter.

For those seeking a unique wildlife adventure, February is also a time to experience the beginnings of the Arctic twilight, when the sun begins to peek above the horizon after months of darkness. This faint glow transforms the snowy landscape into a surreal, ethereal world. Excursions into the wilderness during this time can provide stunning photo opportunities, as well as the chance to witness wildlife in this rare Arctic light. Whether on foot, by snowmobile, or dog sled, these trips provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance to connect with nature in one of the world’s most remote places.

February in Spitsbergen offers a true winter wonderland for those who are prepared for the cold and eager for wildlife experiences. The combination of polar bears, reindeer, ptarmigans, and seals makes it a prime destination for those seeking the thrill of Arctic wildlife encounters, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking, icy wilderness.