About FK
Location
The Falkland Islands are located in the South Atlantic Ocean, about 300 miles (480 kilometers) east of the southern coast of South America. They are an overseas territory of the United Kingdom.
Capital
Stanley is the capital and largest city of the Falkland Islands.
Population
As of the latest estimates, the Falkland Islands have a population of approximately 3,400 people.
Area
The Falkland Islands have a total land area of about 12,170 square kilometers (4,700 square miles), making them slightly smaller than Connecticut in the United States.
Official Language
English is the official language of the Falkland Islands.
Government
The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory with internal self-governance. The islands have a parliamentary representative democratic system, with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serving as the head of government. The Governor, appointed by the British Crown, represents the monarch as the head of state.
Territorial Dispute
The Falkland Islands are the subject of a territorial dispute between the United Kingdom and Argentina. Argentina claims sovereignty over the islands, which it calls the Malvinas. The dispute led to a brief war between the two countries in 1982, during which the UK successfully defended the islands.
Economy
The economy of the Falkland Islands is primarily based on fishing, agriculture, and tourism. The islands are known for their abundant fishing grounds, particularly for squid and various types of finfish. Agriculture, mainly sheep farming, is another important sector. Tourism is also growing, with visitors attracted to the island's rugged natural beauty and wildlife.
Natural Environment
The Falkland Islands are characterized by rugged terrain, dramatic coastlines, and a cool maritime climate. The islands are home to diverse wildlife, including seabirds, penguins, seals, and dolphins. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the unique ecosystem of the islands.
Transportation
The Falkland Islands are accessible by air and sea. The Mount Pleasant Airport near Stanley serves as the main gateway to the islands, with flights connecting to mainland South America and the United Kingdom. There are also regular ferry services between the islands.
National Items of the Falkland Islands
Upland Goose
The Upland Goose (Chloephaga picta) is a significant bird species in the Falkland Islands. It symbolizes the rich avian biodiversity of the islands and is commonly seen in the region.
Falkland Islands Wolf (Warrah)
The Falkland Islands Wolf, also known as the Warrah, was an extinct species unique to the islands. Although it no longer exists, it symbolizes the unique fauna of the Falkland Islands and the impact of human settlement on native species.
Falkland Islands Foxglove
The Falkland Islands Foxglove (Ourisia ruellioides) is a notable native plant. Its presence symbolizes the unique and diverse flora of the islands.
Peat
Peat is a significant natural resource in the Falkland Islands, used traditionally for fuel. It represents the islands' natural resources and traditional practices.
Penguins
Various species of penguins, such as the King Penguin, Gentoo Penguin, and Magellanic Penguin, are abundant in the Falkland Islands. They symbolize the islands' rich wildlife and appeal as a destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Southern Sea Lion
The Southern Sea Lion (Otaria flavescens) is a common marine mammal found around the Falkland Islands. It represents the rich marine biodiversity of the region.
Sheep Farming
Sheep farming is a crucial part of the Falkland Islands' economy. It symbolizes the agricultural heritage and economic significance of sheep farming to the islands.
Gypsy Cove
Gypsy Cove is a popular natural attraction known for its scenic beauty and wildlife, especially penguins. It symbolizes the natural beauty and tourism appeal of the Falkland Islands.
The Falkland Islands Stone Run
Stone runs, also known as rivers of stone, are unique geological formations found in the Falkland Islands. They symbolize the unique geological features of the islands.
The lyrics express loyalty and reverence to the reigning monarch and invoke divine protection for the sovereign and the nation.
The Falkland Islands do not have an official national anthem. However, as an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom, the national anthem of the United Kingdom is often used for official occasions. The national anthem of the United Kingdom is "God Save the Queen." Here are the lyrics in English:
God save our gracious Queen!
Long live our noble Queen!
God save the Queen!
Send her victorious,
Happy and glorious,
Long to reign over us:
God save the Queen!
O Lord our God arise,
Scatter her enemies,
And make them fall:
Confound their politics,
Frustrate by their knavish tricks,
On Thee our hopes we fix:
God save us all.
Thy choicest gifts in store,
On her be pleased to pour;
Long may she reign:
May she defend our laws,
And ever give us cause,
To sing with heart and voice,
God save the Queen!
