Taxonomy
Fratercula arctica | Atlantic Puffin | Puifín
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
This species is Red-listed
according to Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland 2020-2026 and is of high
conservation value as a result.
The IUCN Red List classifies the
Puffin as ‘Vulnerable’ on a global scale in their most recent assessment (2018)
and population trends are noted as decreasing.
Species Biology
Identification
The Puffin is a highly
recognisable bird that is readily identified by its black back and head with
white cheeks, white underparts, bright orange legs and vibrant bill.
An individual with its first
winter plumage can be distinguished from a Guillemot by its smaller size, thicker
body and larger head.
The Puffin stands at
approximately 28 cm in length with a wingspan of 47-63 cm. Weight can range
from 320-480 grams.
Diet
Being a marine species, the
Puffins diet consists of various marine life such as fish and crustaceans.
A favoured food item among the
Puffins are sandeels. Countless images can be seen online whereby Puffins are
holding large numbers of sandeels in their brightly coloured beaks.
Habitat
This species is highly associated
with marine habitats and will be found on suitable coasts and islands.
Suitable nesting habitat includes
burrows or cracks in steep cliffs that are safe from mammalian predators.
Offshore islands are particularly suitable as they are much safer.
Reproduction
During the breeding season, a
single egg is laid and both parents will take turns incubating the egg for a
period of 36-45 days. This egg will weigh approximately 64 grams.
The fledging period can take
anywhere from 34 to 60 days.
An average wild Puffin can live
for 18-20 years and will reach breeding age at five years.
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
Irish distribution
The Puffin winters in the North
Atlantic Ocean and is therefore only found along the Irish coast from March to
September (breeding season).
There are a few Puffin hotspots
around the Irish coast during the summer months. Traditional breeding colonies occur
at The Skelligs off County Kerry, The Cliffs of Moher in county Clare and the
Saltee Islands off County Wexford.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2024
The following map is interactive. If you would prefer to view it full screen then click here.
Further information
BirdWatch Ireland: https://birdwatchireland.ie/birds/puffin/
The Royal Society for the
Protection of Birds: https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/puffin/
British Trust for Ornithology: https://app.bto.org/birdfacts/results/bob6540.htm
IUCN Red List: https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22694927/132581443