Aspskär Islands. 28/05/74; Southern Finland; 728 ha; 60°16'N 026°25'E. Natura 2000 SPA, SCI, Nature Reserve, Baltic Sea Protected Area. Characterized by six mostly treeless islands with occasional stands of Black Alders (Alnus glutinosa), the small archipelago is a representative example of a near-natural wetland type in the European Boreal region, dominated by shallow marine waters and rocky offshore islands. The site forms an important breeding area for archipelago birds, including the most important islet for Alcids in Finland, including the largest Finnish colony of Razorbills with 650 pairs and 150 pairs of Black Guillemot. The main threat is caused by oil pollution, but the American Mink may cause notable damage, especially in the colony of Alcids, and trapping occurs as well. The area is guarded and landing is prohibited during the breeding season of birds, where the Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute monitors annually the development of archipelago bird populations. Ramsar site no. 2. Most recent RIS information: 2005.