Köydille

Köydille is a term primarily used in Estonia and parts of Finland to refer to a small, often uninhabited or sparsely populated island. These islands are typically found in coastal waters or archipelagos. The size of a köydille can vary significantly, from mere rocky outcrops barely above sea level to larger landmasses capable of supporting some vegetation.

The term "köydille" is not a scientific classification but rather a colloquial designation. It often implies an island that is not officially named or recognized on standard maps, or one that is too small to be of significant economic or strategic importance. Historically, such islands might have served practical purposes for local communities, such as temporary fishing stations, grazing land for livestock, or as navigational markers.

The ecological characteristics of köydille islands are diverse, depending on their location, size, and geology. Many are influenced by the marine environment, with salt-tolerant vegetation and bird colonies being common. Their isolation can sometimes lead to unique or endemic species, though this is more common on larger, more established islands. The term is part of a regional vocabulary related to maritime and island geography.