UK Wildlife

Puffin Climate Change and Breeding Crisis

The puffin is one of the UK's most iconic seabirds and a symbol of coastal conservation, but faces serious threats from climate-driven sandeel decline and changing ocean conditions.

Key Facts

UK hosts about 10% of the world's Atlantic puffins - around 580,000 breeding pairs
Sandeel collapse in Shetland caused near-total breeding failure for many consecutive years
Can carry up to 60 fish simultaneously in their laterally flattened bills
Nest in burrows, spending most of the year at sea
Can live over 30 years, making adult survival crucial for population maintenance

Welfare Considerations

Puffin conservation is an urgent priority. Sandeel decline linked to ocean warming has devastated Scottish breeding success. Southern colonies at Skomer and Bempton are more stable. Climate change is the primary driver and requires national policy responses.

What You Can Do

Visit Skomer Island or Bempton Cliffs to see puffins and support reserves financially
Advocate for ambitious climate policy to slow ocean warming
Support sustainable sandeel fisheries management in the North Sea