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About Falklands Wildlife

Wildlife Information for Visitors
If you are thinking of going to the Falklands, Wildlife Information for Visitors gives guidelines on how to enjoy the wonderful wildlife without causing harm or disturbance. There is also advice on how to get further help in planning your visit.

Wildlife Timetable
The Wildlife Timetable (35kb PDF) is a nature events calendar for the Falkland Islands. This is the southern hemisphere so springtime begins in October and winter starts in June. Here you can find out when elephant seals arrive, when penguins lay their eggs, and young albatross fly off to Brazil.

Falkland Wildlife Research and Export Licences
To handle or take samples from Falklands wildlife you must apply for a Research Licence from the Falkland Islands Government. No biological samples may be taken from the Islands without permission and must be accompanied by an Export Licence. For further information and how to apply for these permissions contact the Environment Officer, Environmental Planning Department, Falkland Islands Government. Full details are on www.epd.gov.fk.

Countryside Code
  • Always ask permission before entering private land.
  • Keep to paths wherever possible. Leave gates open or shut as you find them.
  • Be aware of the high fire risk throughout the Islands.
    Be extremely careful if smoking*. Take cigarette butts away with you.
  • Do not drop litter*. Take your rubbish home with you.
  • Do not disfigure rocks or buildings.
  • Do not touch, handle, injure or kill any wild bird or other wild animal.
  • Never feed wild animals.
  • Always give animals the right of way.
    Remember not to block the routes of seabirds and seals coming ashore to their colonies.
  • Try to prevent any undue disturbance to wild animals. Stay on the outside of bird and seal colonies. Remain at least 6m (20ft) away. When taking photographs of filming stay low to the ground. Move slowly and quietly.
    Do not startle or chase wildlife from resting or breeding areas*.
  • Some plants are protected and should not be picked*. Wildflowers are there for all to enjoy and they should be left where they are found.
  • Whalesbones, skulls, eggs or other such items may not be exported from the Falkland Islands*. They should be left where they are found.
* Such actions (with a few special exceptions) may constitute an offence in the Falkland islands and could result in fines up to £3,000 ($6,000).

 

 
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