As late summer turns to autumn in Iceland, a remarkable community tradition unfolds off the south coast. During August and September, the Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) become the centre of the annual “puffling season”—a time when the town rallies to rescue juvenile Atlantic puffins that have lost their way.[1]
Why Do Pufflings Need Rescuing?
The Westman Islands host Europe’s largest puffin colony. When the young birds, known as pufflings, are ready to leave their cliffside nests, they must navigate to the open ocean. Historically, they used the moon and stars to guide them. However, on overcast nights, the bright lights of the town of Heimaey can disorient the birds, causing them to land in streets, gardens and harbour areas instead of the sea.[1]
Once grounded, pufflings struggle to take off again from flat surfaces and are vulnerable to vehicles and roaming cats.
The Community Puffling Patrol
To protect the birds, local families stay out late on August and September nights to form unofficial puffling patrols. Armed with cardboard boxes and torches, residents carefully collect the stranded birds. The pufflings usually spend the night safely in a box before being evaluated and released the next morning.[1]
While it is a deeply ingrained local tradition, visitors must remember that handling wildlife requires care. Tourists should not attempt to capture or release pufflings independently. Instead, visitors should observe respectfully, allow experienced locals to handle the birds, and direct any concerns to official channels.
The Puffin Rescue Centre
For birds that are injured, oiled, or not yet ready for release, the community relies on the Puffin Rescue Centre, located within the Beluga Whale Sanctuary. The sanctuary’s animal care team conducts health assessments on rescued pufflings, providing necessary treatment until they are fit to return to the wild.[2] Visiting the sanctuary is an excellent way for travellers to learn about puffin conservation and support the rescue efforts financially.
Planning Your Visit: The Herjólfur Ferry
If you are planning to visit the Westman Islands during puffling season, the most practical route is the Herjólfur ferry, which sails from Landeyjahöfn on the south coast. The crossing takes approximately 35–40 minutes.[3]
Because late summer and autumn weather in Iceland is famously changeable, ferry schedules can shift. If conditions at Landeyjahöfn are unsuitable, the ferry may be diverted to Þorlákshöfn, which extends the sailing time to nearly three hours.[4]
Travel tips for the ferry:
- Book in advance: Vehicle spaces fill up quickly.
- Check-in: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
- Monitor the schedule: Always check the official Herjólfur website or your messages for weather-related port changes on the day of travel.[3][4]
Witnessing the Westman Islands community come together to protect their beloved puffins is a heartwarming experience. By travelling responsibly and supporting local conservation efforts, you can help ensure this tradition continues for generations.
