Frisian Islands

Frisian Islands, group of islands, north-western Europe, in the North Sea, off the coasts of the Netherlands and Germany, and extending north from the mouth of the Elbe River along the Jutland Peninsula to Denmark. The group comprises the West, East, and North Frisian Islands. The islands are low-lying and are separated from the mainland by shallows. They mark the outer edge of the former continental coastline. Dykes and artificial embankments have been erected to protect the islands against incursions of the sea. Despite these efforts, parts of the Frisian Islands are slowly disappearing because of the constant marine erosion. The chief occupations of the Frisians are fishing, raising sheep and cattle, and farming (mainly potatoes). Summer resort activity is important on many of the islands.

The West Frisian Islands are part of the Netherlands and include Texel, Terschelling, Vlieland, Ameland, Schiermonnikoog, Rottumerplaat, and Rottumeroog.

The East Frisian Islands are part of Germany and include Borkum, Baltrum, Langeoog, Norderney, Spiekeroog, Memmert, Juist, and Wangerooge.

The North Frisian Islands, with the exception of the Danish islands of Fanø and Rømø, also belong to Germany. The group includes Sylt, Nordstrand, Pellworm, Föhr, and Helgoland, as well as Fanø and Rømø.