I recently visited Skomer Island, located off the west coast of Pembrokshire and is renowned for its vibrant population of puffins. These charismatic seabirds, with their distinctive black and white plumage and brightly coloured beaks, capture the hearts of nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.
Skomer provides an ideal breeding ground for puffins, as the islands rugged cliffs offer safe nesting sites and ample food in the surrounding waters. Visitors to Skomer have the opportunity to witness these adorable creatures in their natural habitat, observing their charming waddling walks, intricate courtship displays, and the remarkable spectacle of their short, powerful flights.
With their endearing appearance and playful behaviour, Skomer puffins truly embody the enchanting spirit of coastal wildlife.
The best time to see puffins on the island is between June and mid July when the chicks have hatched and the parents are busy providing food. My advice is to take plenty of food & drink together with good walking boots as typically you spend 5 hours on the island. To walk around the island it takes about 3 hours and the best places to see and photograph puffins is by the boat landing stage and a place called The Wick.
This was my 3rd visit and certainly will not be my last!