Manx Shearwater

The Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) is a sleek, medium-sized seabird with striking black upperparts and white underparts, known for its graceful, gliding flight just above the waves. Often seen on our tours in Faxaflói Bay, this remarkable species is a summer visitor to Iceland, where it nests on offshore islands. Despite its scientific name, derived from a misunderstanding that associated the bird with puffins due to historical confusion in nomenclature, the Manx Shearwater is distinct in both behavior and appearance. These birds are expert foragers, covering vast distances over the ocean to catch small fish and squid. Their elegant flight and impressive migratory journeys make them a fascinating sight, offering a glimpse into the dynamic birdlife of Iceland’s coastal waters.