Hey there, nature lovers! Have you ever heard of puffins? These fascinating seabirds, often referred to as the "clowns of the sea," are a sight to behold, especially when spotted in their natural habitat.

Known for their vibrant beaks and adorable appearance, puffins are a must-see during a visit to Iceland. Let’s dive into the world of puffins and explore why they’ve captured the hearts of visitors from around the world!

Where Can We Find Puffins in Iceland?

Iceland is home to a massive population of puffins, particularly the Atlantic puffin (Fratercula arctica). Around 10 million puffins reside in Iceland, with the largest colonies found on the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar), a group of islands off the south coast. In fact, scientists estimate that there are over 1 million puffin nests on the islands, housing up to 4 million puffins! If you’re planning to visit Iceland, a trip to these islands should be on your list.

Aside from the Westman Islands, puffins can also be found in other coastal regions, including Dyrhólaey and Látrabjarg, where they nest in large, bustling colonies during the summer months.

The Puffin's Unique Characteristics

Puffins are known for their distinctive appearance. They have stout, stocky bodies, short wings, and bright orange-red feet. During the breeding season, their beaks turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, which makes them even more striking. Outside of the breeding season, their beaks shrink and dull in color, becoming more subtle and less eye-catching.

While puffins are known for their playful behavior on land, they are also skilled swimmers, diving underwater to catch fish and small marine creatures. Their wings, though short for flight, are perfect for swimming, enabling them to flap at incredible speeds of up to 400 times per minute.

Puffins’ Nesting and Reproduction

Puffins are social birds and often breed in large colonies. These birds prefer to nest in burrows, which they dig into the soft ground or between rocks on cliffs. Puffins usually lay one egg per year, which both parents take turns incubating. The chick, known as a "puffling," is cared for by both parents until it is old enough to fend for itself.

During the breeding season, puffins spend most of their time on land, but once the season ends, they return to the sea. This period of "vacation" is when they molt and regain their strength for the next breeding season.

Best Time to See Puffins in Iceland

The best time to spot puffins in Iceland is between May and August, when they are nesting and the weather is warmer. During this period, puffins can be found in large colonies on cliffs, making for some truly unforgettable wildlife experiences. If you're looking for the most impressive puffin colonies, the Westman Islands are the place to be.

We recommend visiting Iceland during the summer months to ensure you catch a glimpse of these incredible birds. However, if you’re aiming for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities, visiting early in the season, in May or June, is your best choice.

How to Get to Puffin Hotspots

Getting to the puffin hotspots in Iceland is relatively easy. If you’re heading to the Westman Islands, you can take a ferry from the mainland, which departs from Landeyjahöfn. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, and once you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views and puffin-filled cliffs. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour from the mainland to various puffin colonies, including Dyrhólaey and Látrabjarg.

Most major cities in Iceland, like Reykjavik, are well connected by road to the puffin viewing locations, and several tours operate throughout the summer season to take you directly to the best spots.

Useful Tips for Puffin Watching

1. Bring Binoculars: Puffins can be a bit shy and often stay far from the cliffs, so binoculars are essential for a closer look.

2. Respect the Birds: While puffins are adorable, it’s crucial to respect their space and not disturb their nesting sites. Always follow guidelines from local wildlife organizations.

3. Wear Comfortable Shoes: Puffin viewing often requires walking along rugged terrain, so make sure you wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.

4. Check the Weather: Icelandic weather can change quickly, so always check the forecast before heading out to ensure the best puffin-watching experience.

An Unforgettable Puffin Adventure Awaits!

Puffins are one of the most iconic and cherished creatures in Iceland, and they truly capture the essence of this incredible country. From the majestic cliffs of the Westman Islands to the serene boat tours, seeing puffins up close in their natural environment is a heartwarming and unforgettable experience.

So, Lykkers, if you’re seeking an adventure that combines wildlife, stunning landscapes, and a touch of Icelandic charm, make sure to add puffin watching to your travel plans. You’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime!

Puffin Hunts Fish To Feed Puffling | 4K UHD | Blue Planet II | BBC Earth

Video by BBC Earth