Iceland – An undercover investigation at three fur farms in southern Iceland has revealed shocking levels of animal suffering, prompting calls for the UK Government to end fur imports. Investigators documented mink with large wounds, infections, and blood-soaked bodies confined in small, filthy wire cages. Dead animals were left in cages, and some displayed signs of mental breakdown.

The investigation took place in November 2025, just a month before the farms closed, reportedly due to financial collapse. Thousands of mink were observed in dark sheds, with visible injuries, infected eyes, and behaviors indicative of severe stress.

Reports obtained in February 2026 indicate that Iceland’s last operating fur farm, Dalsbu in Mosfellsdalur, continues to house thousands of mink in factory-style cages under concerning conditions. Inspections over the past decade noted wounds, abscesses, injuries, and even signs of cannibalism, potentially violating Iceland’s Animal Welfare Act.

Claire Bass, senior director at Humane World for Animals UK, said: “These horrific images of blood-soaked mink trapped for their whole lives in tiny wire cages are as far removed from the fur trade’s fantasy of ‘luxury fur’ as it’s possible to get… Fur farming is banned in the UK, now the government must uphold that standard and put the British fur trade where it belongs, in the past.”

UK parliamentary debate on banning fur imports received strong cross-party support, but nearly £800,000 worth of Icelandic fur has entered the UK from Finland over the last decade. Campaigners warn that until the UK closes its doors to foreign fur, animals will continue to suffer abroad.

Dr. Rosa Lif Darradottir of Animal Welfare Iceland said: “Fur farming, by its very nature, is fundamentally incompatible with statutory objectives to protect animals from fear, suffering, pain, and injury. We urge the British government to say no to fur imports and say no to fur suffering.”

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