Puffins are fascinating seabirds that have a distinctive appearance and behavior. If you are interested in observing these unique creatures, it is essential to know when they are out and about.
The puffin season typically begins in April and lasts until July. During this time, puffins can be found nesting on islands and cliff tops around the coast. These locations provide the perfect habitat for puffins to breed and raise their young.
In April, as spring arrives, puffins return to their breeding colonies after spending the winter months at sea. They are easily recognizable by their vibrant orange beaks and striking black and white plumage. Puffins are highly social birds and often gather in large colonies, creating a bustling and noisy atmosphere.
As the breeding season progresses, puffins engage in courtship displays and begin to build their nests. They dig burrows in the soil or find crevices in the cliffs to lay their eggs. Puffins are monogamous and typically return to the same nesting site year after year.
During May and June, puffins can be seen flying in and out of their nests, bringing food to their chicks. They are excellent divers and can catch fish by diving underwater. Puffins primarily feed on small fish such as sand eels and herring. Their ability to carry multiple fish in their beaks at once is a sight to behold.
July marks the end of the puffin season as the chicks fledge and become independent. At this point, the puffins leave their breeding colonies and head out to sea. They will spend the rest of the year on the open ocean, primarily in the Bay of Biscay and other areas where there is an abundance of fish.
During the winter months, puffins face the challenges of surviving in rough seas and finding enough food to sustain themselves. They are well adapted to life at sea and can withstand harsh weather conditions. However, they may travel long distances in search of food, sometimes venturing as far as the North Atlantic.
It is important to note that the exact timing of the puffin season can vary slightly depending on the location. Factors such as weather patterns and availability of food can influence when puffins arrive and depart from their breeding sites. Therefore, it is advisable to check with local bird-watching organizations or wildlife experts for specific information on puffin sightings in your area.
If you are eager to see puffins in action, the best time to spot them is from April to July when they are nesting and breeding on islands and cliffs around the coast. Outside of this season, puffins spend their time at sea, navigating the rough waters and searching for food. So, make sure to plan your puffin-watching adventures accordingly and enjoy observing these remarkable seabirds in their natural habitat.