Marine Flora and Fauna of the Arctic: Who You Can Encounter on Tours

The Arctic often seems harsh and silent, but in reality, it is one of the most vibrant and complex regions on the planet. Arctic flora and fauna have developed under conditions of cold, storms, and short summers, making every living creature here an example of remarkable adaptation. In the waters off the coast of the Kola Peninsula, a rich Arctic ecosystem unfolds, where beneath the surface of the cold sea lies a world full of movement, hunting, and migrations. This is exactly where encounters with Arctic marine animals take place.

For many travelers, the main discovery in Teriberka is the whales. The Barents Sea is an important feeding ground, so various species return here every year. Whales in the Arctic can be seen during seasonal migrations. The most commonly encountered species are:

Besides whales, other Arctic marine mammals inhabit these waters. Occasionally, you can spot dolphins in Teriberka and porpoises that cautiously follow boats. Equally impressive are the seals in Teriberka – they often rest on coastal rocks or ice floes, attentively observing their surroundings. All of these Arctic animals have a remarkable ability to conserve heat and energy in the cold waters.
Set out on a boat trip to see these unique mammals with your own eyes!

Life above the sea is just as active. Arctic seabirds – gulls, kittiwakes, cormorants, and puffins – form noisy colonies on the cliffs. They are closely connected to the sea and quickly respond to the appearance of fish schools. For experienced observers, these birds serve as a clue to where underwater life is most active. They are an important part of Arctic nature and one of the most photogenic elements of the northern landscapes.

At the foundation of all life are the Arctic fish. Cod, haddock, pollock, and other species form the food base for whales, seals, and seabirds. Thanks to them, the marine fauna of the Barents Sea remains rich, and Arctic biodiversity stays resilient. Without this underwater world, it is impossible to imagine the animals of the northern seas and their complex interconnections.
This is precisely why fishing and culinary tours are so popular in Teriberka — and we invite you to join them!

Many Arctic marine species undertake long migrations. Arctic whales and dolphins can travel thousands of kilometers, following food sources and changes in water temperature. Despite the cold, the metabolism of these animals allows them to actively hunt and raise their young even in northern latitudes. This makes the Arctic ecosystem both especially fragile and incredibly valuable.

Based on the experience of the Seahike team, the most successful encounters with marine giants occur during calm weather, early in the morning or closer to evening. The observation season lasts from late spring to early autumn, when migration is most active. Each whale-watching excursion is unique: today it might be a single fin whale on the horizon, and tomorrow a whole pod of orcas. Patience and attentiveness to nature are the main allies for anyone interested in where to see whales in Russia.

The animals of the Barents Sea are sensitive to noise and human interference. That’s why it’s important to maintain distance, avoid approaching wildlife, and use only safe photography practices. Respectful behavior helps preserve the northern environment and gives future generations the chance to see this world as vibrant as it is today.

The Arctic is not just ice and wind; it is an incredible diversity of life. The animals of the Kola Peninsula — whales, seals, birds, and fish — create a fragile yet powerful ecosystem that cannot be fully understood through a single photo or story. It can only be truly experienced through direct contact with the sea.

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