Hundreds of Minks Escape Icelandic Farm After Suspected Break-in

An investigation is underway into a suspected break-in at the Dalsbú mink farm, where an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 minks were kept. Hundreds of the animals were released early this morning after their enclosures were found open.

"It is quite clear that the farmer did not open the cages and the house. The cages and the house were open [this morning]," stated Ásgeir Þór Ásgeirsson, deputy chief of police for the capital region, to mbl.is. He declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation or whether any items were left at the scene.

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It is quite clear that the farmer did not open the cages and the house. The cages and the house were open [this morning].

While many minks remain within the farm's perimeter fence, a significant number have escaped. The farmer faces the considerable task of recapturing the animals, particularly those loose inside the farm buildings. Mink hunters and search teams, aided by dogs, are actively working in the area. The public is strongly advised not to approach or feed the minks, even if they appear docile, and to report any sightings to the authorities.

This incident marks the third such break-in at animal farms in the capital region recently. Similar incidents occurred at Reykjabú in Mosfellsbær earlier in June and at a pig farm in Kjalarnes in May, where notes were reportedly left behind.

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It is very important if people see a mink, even if they seem tame and want to come to us, it is important not to approach the animals, not to pet them at all, and not to feed them.