Puffin patrol in Mykines

Hiking.fo has been asked to help minimise the stress on the fragile puffin population in Mykines caused by crowds of tourists.

The summer schedule for the Mykines ferry began yesterday, which means that large numbers of tourists will be visiting the bird-rich island over the next months.

Last spring, Mykines locals decided that something had to be done to protect the island’s declining puffin population from the surge of summer visitors.

The new rules state that walking off the beaten path is only allowed 11am-5pm when the patrols are present.

Outside of these hours, visitors will require a special permission from the freeholders. Alternatively, visitors can make arrangements with a certified tourist guide.

Translated by prosa.fo.