Source link : https://europ.info/2025/09/05/icelands-wild-season-when-baby-puffins-take-a-plunge-off-cliffs/
Every year in Iceland, an uncommon and controversial rite marks the beginning of spring: the “throw a baby puffin off a cliff” season. This traditional practice, rooted in generations of local heritage, has recently drawn international attention and sparked lively debate over wildlife conservation and cultural customs. National Geographic’s latest report delves into the origins, methods, and ethical questions surrounding this age-old ritual, shedding light on a practice few outside Iceland have witnessed firsthand.
The Controversial Tradition Behind Puffin Cliff Practices in Iceland
In remote parts of Iceland, an unusual and deeply rooted practice persists amidst growing international outcry. Locals participate in the so-called “puffin cliff” tradition, which involves the controversial removal of young puffins by dropping them from cliffs. This practice, historically justified by subsistence hunting and cultural rituals, has sparked heated debates between conservationists and indigenous communities. Advocates argue it is a sustainable method aligned with centuries-old customs, while critics claim it causes undue suffering to the birds and threatens puffin populations across the North Atlantic.
Key elements of this tradition include:
- Timing: Conducted annually during late spring when puffins are at their nesting sites.
- Method: Young puffins are gathered, then dropped off cliffs, a technique believed to help them learn to fly.
- Cultural significance: Seen by…
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Author : Sophia Davis
Publish date : 2025-09-05 11:40:00
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