National Nature Reserves
Conserving native plants and animals and their habitats, the Falklands boasts 19 legally-protected nature reserves
The Falkland Islands has 19 National Nature Reserves (NNRs) designated between 1964 and 2017. Some reserves are owned by the Falkland Islands Government and some are owned by organisations and private individuals.
Often in remote locations and only accessible by boat or off-road vehicle, they protect a range of native species and habitats including offshore islands, tussac grasslands, peatlands, wetlands and freshwater ecosystems. Many reserves are also recognised through international scientific designations including Important Bird Areas (IBA), Important Plant Areas (IPA), Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA) and Ramsar wetlands of international importance.
National Nature Reserves are legally protected under the Conservation of Wildlife and Nature Ordinance 1999.
National Nature Reserves at a glance:
| 19 National Nature Reserves |
| 47,500 hectares protected |
| 8 reserves owned by FIG, 11 reserves owned privately |
| Most reserves were designated between the 1960s and 1990s |
| Stanley Common and Cape Pembroke Peninsula is the most popular reserve to visit because it is easily accessible from Stanley and is home to lots of native wildlife. |
| Kidney Island is a popular reserve to visit in summer because it boats extraordinary wildlife and is easily accessible by boat from Stanley. Visits require guide, permit, biocide footbath, and post-trip feedback. |
| A visitor licence is required to visit most reserves that are owned by government. Access to privately-owned reserves requires permission of the landowner. |
For more information, please contact
the Environment Department
Phone: +500 28449
Email: [email protected]