Masters of Air, Sea, and Land

Puffins are remarkably versatile birds. Unlike many seabirds that excel at either flying or swimming, puffins are experts at both. Their short wings allow them to beat up to 400 times per minute, enabling them to reach speeds of up to 88 km/h in the air. Below the surface, their wings function like flippers, propelling them through the water in pursuit of their favourite prey - sandeels, capelin, and herring.

When it comes to nesting, puffins demonstrate yet another skill: burrowing. Instead of building nests like many other birds, puffins dig tunnels into the soil of cliffs or small islands, creating a safe space to lay a single egg each breeding season. The parents take turns incubating the egg for 36-43 days before the chick, known as a puffling, hatches. After another 34-44 days, the puffling leaves the burrow and heads out to sea, not returning to land for several years!

With their unique mix of charm, resilience, and adaptability, puffins are truly one of Iceland’s most iconic and captivating seabirds. From the cliffs of the Westfjords to the islands just off Reykjavík, these remarkable birds play an essential role in the marine ecosystem. Whether you’re lucky enough to spot them diving for fish, nesting in their burrows, or soaring above the waves, witnessing puffins in the wild is an unforgettable experience - and a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting their fragile coastal habitats for generations to come.