Puffin Island is a protected bird reserve managed by BirdWatch Ireland.

The island covers about 1.5 hectares and is separated from the mainland by a narrow sound.

It supports major colonies of puffins, Manx shearwaters, storm petrels, razorbills, and guillemots, which nest in spring and early summer.

Puffins arrive around April and depart by August after breeding season.

The island’s steep cliffs and grassy burrows offer safe nesting away from predators.

1980s: Designated a Wildlife Sanctuary and placed under State protection.

1990s: Incorporated into the Skelligs Special Protection Area (SPA) under the EU Birds Directive.

Access is restricted to licensed researchers to protect nesting habitats.