For Our Little Lóa
Our children’s book The Grumpy Whale, is influenced by the old Icelandic folklore that inspired our name. You can find you more about the origins in the journal post ‘Why is our whale so grumpy?‘. Our book was also inspired heavily by Icelandic nature. One animal, the Lóa, in the book was very close to our hearts when writing the book. The Lóa a important symbol in Icelandic culture and this is helped us name our daughter Ísold Lóa. The Grumpy Whale book is dedicated to her- For to our little Lóa. Ísold Lóa beautiful presence in our lives inspired us to write this book.
The Essence of Lóa:
Lóa is a bird that carries a beautiful significance in Iceland. The Lóa or in English the “Golden Plover” is a bird, which has become a symbol deeply rooted in the natural rhythms of Iceland. The return of the Lóa each spring heralds the end of winter and the arrival of summer. It’s a beacon of hope, a messenger of change, and a symbol of renewal.
A Seasonal Symphony:
In Iceland, the Lóa or Golden Plover is intricately tied to the changing seasons. As winter fades away, the song of the Golden Plover resonates through the air, bringing with it the promise of warmer days and blossoming landscapes. It is such a big part of the culture here that the first one spotted every year usually makes headline news.
The bird is also know by its beautiful Icelandic nickname: vorboðinn ljúfi or “The Sweet Spring Herald” in English. A common Icelandic saying, which comes from a popular 19th century poem, states that the Plover arrives að kveða burt snjóinn, “to sing away the snow”.
Distinctive Characteristics
Adorned with striking golden plumage during the breeding season, the male Golden Plover is a sight to behold as it performs elaborate aerial displays to attract mates. Its melodious calls resonate across the Icelandic landscape, adding to the allure of the country’s wilderness. With a wingspan of over 60 centimeters, this medium-sized bird commands attention as it gracefully navigates the skies.
Folklore and Tradition
According to Icelandic folklore, the Golden Plover’s arrival is not merely a seasonal event but a divine occurrence. Legend has it that the bird was created by Jesus himself, breathing life into clay statues made by children on the Sabbath. As the birds took flight, they became messengers of glory, their song a testament to their creator’s grace. Icelandic folklore is often a mix of old Nordic paganism and Christianity. Farmers once relied on the bird’s behavior to predict weather patterns, attesting to its connection with the natural world.
Ecological Role and Conservation
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Golden Plover plays a crucial ecological role in Iceland’s ecosystem. As a ground-nesting bird, it helps regulate insect populations, contributing to the balance of the island’s fragile biodiversity. Moreover, its presence serves as an indicator of environmental health, reflecting the integrity of Iceland’s pristine wilderness.
Migratory Patterns and Habitat
As one of the first migratory birds to return each spring, the Golden Plover embarks on an epic journey from its wintering grounds in the British Isles and North Africa to its breeding grounds in Iceland and beyond. With its distinctive S-shaped white band and graceful flight, the Golden Plover is a sight to behold, symbolizing the resilience of nature and the promise of warmer days ahead.
A Call to Conservation
While the Golden Plover is not considered endangered, the birds protection remains paramount to preserving Iceland’s natural heritage. Hunting or harming Golden Plovers is strictly prohibited in Iceland, reflecting the nation’s reverence for these gentle heralds of spring. Through education and awareness, Icelanders and visitors alike can appreciate the beauty and significance of these remarkable birds, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at their timeless presence in Iceland’s landscapes. I you would like to know more please visit Bird Life Iceland.
Experience the Magic
For nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, witnessing the Golden Plover in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. From the rugged coastlines to the remote highlands, opportunities abound to observe these majestic birds in their element. Guided tours and birdwatching excursions offer immersive encounters with the Golden Plover, providing insights into its behavior and habitat preferences.
Our Lóa is Very Special to The Grumpy Whale
In dedicating The Grumpy Whale Book to our Little Lóa, we adding more heartfelt significance to ourselves and Iceland. The Lóa is more than just a bird; it is a symbol of hope, renewal, and the enduring bond between nature and humanity. As we turn the pages of the book story, we do so with gratitude for the golden presence of our Little Lóa and every little Lóa in Iceland.
Get your copy of The Grumpy Whale book today in either English or Icelandic here.
