Puffins in East Iceland up close
Meeting puffins in Borgarfjör∂ur Eystri
They weigh only about 400 grams, can dive up to 60 meters deep, become up to
90 km/h in the air and stay together with their partner, or mate, as a pair for their whole life. They are the superstars of any souvenir store in Iceland and they are definitely one of the main attractions of the volcanic island: Puffins.
There are more puffins in Iceland than in any other country, and 8 to 10 million of them make their home here during the summer season. There are many places where one can see the cute birds, however, these places are often difficult to access. The safest and most convenient place for “puffin-watching” is in eastern Borgarfjör∂ur. Even the drive to the remote fjord is worth it. On the way and on site you will enjoy a view of colorful rhyolite mountains, as you know them from the highland area of Landmannalaugar. In addition, you will encounter a bizarre and very lovingly prepared kiosk. It has a solar-powered snack machine and a terrace with seating.
Once in the fjord, just outside is Borgarfjar∂arhöfn (Höfn= harbour): there is a small peninsula right on the harbour basin that has been fortified with stairs, walkways and small viewing platforms. From just a few meters away you can watch the puffins and at the same time you don’t have to worry about accidentally destroying the nesting holes.
Approximately 20,000 puffins return here each year to build a nesting cavity underground with their partner. After the female lays an egg, the pair takes turns incubating it. Then, 40 days later, a puffin chick sees the light of day. As soon as it has fledged, it leaves with its parents to lead a solitary life at sea. Until it returns for the breeding season and, at 5 to 6 years of age, it is on the lookout for a mate of its own during its time on land.
Soon, the birds return and stay on land from mid-April to mid-August. When visiting Iceland in summer, take the chance to observe the colonies and the entertaining activity, as in Borgarfjör∂ur on the peninsula.
Link to the official website of Borgarfjö∂ur Eystri: https://www.borgarfjordureystri.is/en
Thank you, dear Nele, for your report and amazing pictures!
Images & Text: Nele Mahnke
Nele’s Instagram
A land of fire and ice, with more sheep than inhabitants, characterized by a unique nature! This is just a brief description of such a diverse country. While a volcano may erupt on one side of the country, you can hike a glacier, admire the Northern Lights, or take a bath in a hot spring on the other side of the country - at the same time.
This not only speaks for diversity, but also for spontaneity, which is also reflected in the changeable weather in Iceland. A popular Icelandic saying is "If you do not like the current weather, just wait for five minutes".
In contrast to this inconsistency, one thing is constant and that is the enthusiasm for Icelandic horses! The Vikings brought horses to the island in the 9th century.
To find out more about Iceland, you can find travelogues, reports, or interesting facts here in the UNDRA Journal!