The island was raided by Viking Norsemen in 812 and 823. The island is rich in mammals and birds. There is a large population of rabbits, mice and a few feral goats. The Skelligs are well known for there fine seabird colonies which include gannets, storm petrals, manx shearwaters, fullmers and kittiwakes, razorbills, puffins and a range of different gulls. Little Skellig is dominated by gannets.
Underwater life is vast around the island with seals, dolphins and many other underwater treasures.
There are 38 species of flora found on Skellig Michael and Little Skellig has only 8 species recorded. A lighthouse was developed in the 1820's and was completed in 1826.