Puffins of Iceland

Did you know that Iceland is home to adorable puffins, those seabirds with colorful beaks and a unique appearance? These captivating creatures can be spotted nesting along the rugged coastlines of Iceland during the summer months, adding to the country's rich biodiversity. If you're curious to learn more about the world of puffins in Iceland, their habitats, and the best places to observe them, then you're in for a treat. Let's dive deeper into the fascinating world of puffins in Iceland!

Puffins are typically in Iceland from April to September, with the peak season being between June and August when they breed and raise their chicks.

There are three species of puffins, but the Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica) is the one most commonly found in Iceland. These seabirds are easily recognizable by their black and white plumage, orange legs, and vibrant beaks. The puffins' beaks change color throughout the year, becoming more vivid during the breeding season.

Iceland puffins are monogamous, returning to the same nesting sites each year. They burrow into the cliffs or grassy slopes, creating tunnels up to a meter long. The female puffin lays a single egg, and both parents take turns incubating it for around 40 days. Once the chick hatches, both parents provide food until the young puffin is ready to fledge, typically around 40 days after hatching.

Puffins are expert divers, plunging into the cold waters of the North Atlantic to catch small fish like sand eels and herring. Using their specialized beaks, they can hold multiple fish at once, allowing them to bring back ample food for their chicks. Puffins can dive up to 60 meters deep and are agile swimmers propelled by their mighty wings.

1. Látrabjarg Cliffs: Located in the Westfjords, Látrabjarg is Europe's most giant seabird cliff and a prime spot for puffin watching. The ridges are home to thousands of puffins during the breeding season, making it an ideal location to observe these charming birds up close.

2. Papey Island: A small island off the east coast of Iceland, Papey is another popular destination for puffin enthusiasts. Accessible by boat, visitors can witness large colonies of puffins nesting in the island's cliffs.

3. Dyrhólaey Peninsula: Situated along the southern coast, the Dyrhólaey Peninsula offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a big chance to see puffins nesting in the cliffs.

4. Grimsey Island: Located in the Arctic Circle, Grimsey Island is a remote destination for puffin lovers. The island is home to a large puffin colony, and visitors can enjoy a unique experience observing these birds in their natural habitat.