Eringkonna

Eringkonna is a small, uninhabited island located in the Baltic Sea, situated approximately 1.5 kilometers off the coast of Estonia, near the town of Pärnu. The island is part of the Pärnu County and belongs to the administrative region of Lääneranna Parish. Its name derives from the Estonian words *ering* (meaning "ring" or "circle") and *konna* (meaning "snake"), possibly referencing its shape or local folklore.

Eringkonna covers an area of roughly 1.2 hectares and is characterized by its rocky shoreline and sparse vegetation. The island is primarily composed of limestone and is surrounded by shallow waters, making it accessible during low tide. Historically, it has been used as a nesting site for seabirds, including common terns and black-headed gulls, contributing to its ecological significance.

Access to Eringkonna is restricted to protect its natural habitat. Visitors are generally not permitted to land on the island, though it can be viewed from the shore or by boat. The island’s isolation and lack of infrastructure have preserved its pristine environment, making it a subject of interest for environmentalists and nature enthusiasts.

In Estonian folklore, Eringkonna has been associated with various legends, often tied to its mysterious appearance and the sea’s unpredictable nature. Some stories depict it as a place where spirits or supernatural beings were said to dwell. Today, the island remains a quiet and largely untouched part of Estonia’s coastal landscape, valued for its ecological role and cultural significance.