Iceland Puffin Cliffs
Arctic & Subarctic
Birds
Beginner
Iceland — Westman Islands
May to August
Overview
Europe's largest Atlantic puffin colony with millions of nesting birds on sea cliffs.
Equipment
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Warm windproof layers
- Sturdy shoes
Safety Notes
- Cliff edges have no barriers — keep well back
- Strong winds can be dangerous near cliffs
Identification Tips
1
Puffins most active evening when returning with fish
2
Burrow entrances face the sea
3
Arctic skuas pirate fish from returning puffins
Species Checklist
| Species | Likelihood | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Puffin | common | Cliff-top burrows, evening return |
| Northern Gannet | common | Diving offshore |
| Arctic Skua | common | Chasing puffins for fish |
| White-tailed Eagle | uncommon | Soaring above cliffs |