Species such as fulmar, puffins, guillemot, kittiwake and gannet which is the largest of these species. The cliffs, which are built up by layer upon layer of volcanic deposits create a perfect home for the birds. The gigantic nesting place provides protection from enemies on land and gives an easy access to food supplies in the ocean. Some seabirds like the Arctic tern and black-backed gull live in colonies on the open mountain heaths or on the low islets. They defend their eggs by making direct attacks upon any threats, including humans.
Inland birds are no less interesting and variable than the seabirds.
The Faroese national bird is the oystercatcher which can be seen all over the islands. The oystercatcher has a penetrating call and a very distinct graphic feature of black and white with a long red beak. Other species include the whimbrel, the snipe, and the golden plover. The less frequent visitors are the red-necked phalarope and different species of ducks. The resident breeding birds amount to some total of 50 different species.