Wildlife

UK Puffin Welfare and Food Security

Conservation and welfare of Atlantic puffins and the food security crisis caused by sandeel decline.

Key Facts

Sandeel availability is declining as sea temperatures rise due to climate change
Poor breeding seasons lead to chick starvation and colony productivity collapse
UK puffin colonies at Skomer, Handa, and other sites are carefully monitored
Sandeel fishery restrictions protect food supplies for seabirds
Individual puffins can live for over 20 years making each bird a significant welfare unit

Welfare Considerations

Individual puffin chicks face welfare risks from starvation when sandeel prey is scarce, and both climate action and sandeel fishery management are essential welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB and Joint Nature Conservation Committee seabird monitoring
Advocate for sandeel fishery restrictions to protect puffin food supplies
Visit seabird reserves at Skomer Island and Handa Island to support conservation