The Falkland Islands or Islas Malvinas are located off the southern tip of Argentina in the Atlantic Ocean and occupy 12,173 sq km of land. The two main islands are West and East Falkland although the islands of Jason, Weddell, and Lively also make up the Falkland chain. The terrain is a flat affair, much of it rocky with small hills, the largest (Mount Usborne) measuring just 705m. The low-lying areas are made up of an often boggy, undulating plain. Being a series of islands, the Falklands have a coastline of 1288 km. This coast is home to several deep indentations that create a series of natural harbours. The bleak, sparsely populated landscape is home to some interesting birdlife including albatross and penguins.
The capital is Stanley, a small settlement almost village-like in appearance with its neat, brightly coloured houses. The official unit of currency is the Falkland Pound and the national language is English. The legal system of the Falkland Islands is also British and the Union Jack adorns the top right hand corner of the Falkland Island's flag.
The bulk of the Falkland's economy is dominated by fishing, with squid accounting for 75% of the catch. 95% of the Falkland Island's workforce is employed within the Agriculture industry. Products include vegetable crops, sheep and dairy products. The export partners are the UK, Japan, Chile and New Zealand. The transport network is represented by 550 km of roads.
The climate is similar to offshore Scottish islands like the Orkneys, with cool rainy, foggy weather for much of the year and much wind, giving a cold windchill factor as it blows across the landscape. Snow often falls within the winter months. The annual temperature variation in Stanley ranges from -11°C to 24°C.»
Southern South America
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