Discover Puffin Island
Puffin Island, known in Welsh as Ynys Seiriol, is a small, uninhabited island off the eastern tip of Anglesey, North Wales. This hidden gem is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a unique glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the Irish Sea.
A Birdwatcher's Paradise
Despite its name, Puffin Island is home to much more than just puffins. The island boasts a rich variety of bird species, including:
- Atlantic Puffins
- Guillemots
- Razorbills
- Kittiwakes
- Cormorants
- Shags
The island's cliffs and grassy slopes provide ideal nesting grounds for these seabirds, making it a crucial breeding site in the region.
Fascinating Puffin Facts
- Puffins can dive up to 60 meters deep in search of food.
- They can hold up to 60 fish in their beaks at once.
- Puffins are monogamous and often return to the same nesting site year after year.
- The puffin's colorful beak fades to a dull gray color in winter.
- Puffins spend most of their lives at sea, only coming to land to breed.
History and Conservation
Puffin Island has a rich history dating back to the 6th century when St. Seiriol established a monastery on the island. Today, it's a Special Protection Area (SPA) and part of the Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, highlighting its importance for conservation.
Visiting Puffin Island
While the island itself is not open to the public to protect its delicate ecosystem, visitors can enjoy boat trips around the island from nearby Beaumaris. These trips offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, especially during the breeding season from April to July.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early summer for the best chance to see puffins and other breeding seabirds.