Puffins in Scotland
Where, When & How to See Puffins in Scotland
Puffins are one of Scotland's most beloved seabirds. These cute and colourful creatures are known for their distinctive appearance, with their brightly coloured beaks and eye-catching feathers. They can be found in various locations throughout Scotland, particularly on the country's many islands and coastal areas.
In this article, we’ll break down where you can see Puffins in Scotland, when the best time to see them is and how you can best go about organising your Scotland vacation so that you Puffins will be included. We’ll also start with some fun facts about these adorable creatures!
Click to Navigate to Specific Sections on Puffins in Scotland
At Scotland’s Wild, our friendly, story-telling guides have led thousands of trips through Scotland. We share history, legends and tales to entice people to visit this incredible country!
If you’d like to check-out our selection of tours, from day trips to island hopping, multi-day adventures - click here
14 Facts About Puffins in Scotland
Scottish Breeding Grounds
Puffins nest on cliffs and islands across Scotland, with key colonies on Handa Island and the Isle of Eigg, both Scottish Wildlife Trust reserves.Parrots of the Sea
Often called ‘sea parrots’ because of their brightly coloured bills, puffins are instantly recognisable seabirds found along rocky coasts and islands.Seasonal Visitors to Scotland
Puffins spend most of their lives at sea but return to Scotland’s coastal cliffs between March and August to breed.Deep Divers
Puffins can dive up to 60 meters (197 feet) underwater to catch fish, using their wings to propel themselves.
5. Impressive Fish Carriers
Thanks to their serrated bills, puffins can hold multiple fish at once—one puffin was recorded carrying 83 small sand eels in a single trip!
6. Breeding Season Attire
Their bills turn vibrant orange in the breeding season but fade to duller shades after, as the outer layer sheds in winter.
7. Rare Leucistic Puffins in Scotland
A rare white puffin, due to a genetic condition called leucism, was spotted on Handa Island, making it stand out among its black-and-white peers.
8. Vulnerable to Harsh Weather
Extreme weather, particularly storms and prolonged cold spells, can lead to mass puffin deaths, especially affecting chicks.
9. Predominantly European Birds
About 90% of Atlantic puffins breed in Europe, with the largest colonies in Iceland and Norway. The UK is home to over a million puffins!
10. Scottish Conservation Efforts
Organisations like the Scottish Wildlife Trust monitor puffin populations on islands like Handa to help protect them from food shortages and predation.
11. Longevity Similar to Penguins
Puffins can live up to 20 years, with some individuals even reaching 30 years in the wild!
12. Fish Enthusiasts
In Scotland, puffins primarily feed on lesser sand eel, followed by sprats and herring, which they catch in quick underwater dives.
13. Small but Mighty
Puffins weigh between 320-480 grams (11-17 oz) and have a wingspan of 47-63 cm (18-25 inches), making them agile flyers despite their small size.
14. Conservation Concerns
Climate change, overfishing, and pollution are causing puffin populations to decline in certain regions, leading to increased conservation efforts to protect these beloved seabirds.
When is the best time to see Puffins in Scotland?
When it comes to spotting puffins in Scotland, timing is key. To maximise your chances of catching a glimpse of these charismatic seabirds, plan your visit between the months of April and August. This timeframe offers the best opportunity to witness puffins in action, as they are most active and visible during this period.
However, it's important not to arrive too early in April, as puffins may still be settling into their nesting sites. By late April and into May, you're more likely to see puffins engaged in their breeding activities, including courtship displays, nest-building, and chick-rearing.
The best months to see Puffins in Scotland are probably June & July as they will be busy feeding their chicks - which may be the most adorable thing you ever witness in your life.
Keep in mind that puffins are seasonal visitors, and you won't find them outside the April to August window. Therefore, it's essential to plan your trip within this timeframe to experience the magic of puffin colonies along the Scottish coastline.
While puffins are undoubtedly the stars of the show, don't become too fixated on just one bird species. Scotland's seaboard is teeming with other fascinating marine birds, such as guillemots and various Scottish avian species. Exploring the diverse avian life along the coast can be equally rewarding and provide a broader perspective on the region's rich birdlife.
Staffa: This uninhabited island off the coast of Mull is famous for its unique geology, but it is also home to a large Puffin colony that can be viewed from boat trips.
Handa Island: This remote island off the coast of Sutherland has a large seabird colony, including Puffins, and can be accessed by boat during the summer months.
Fair Isle: This small island between Orkney and Shetland is home to a Puffin colony, as well as other seabirds such as Guillemots and Razorbills.
The Isle of May: Located in the Firth of Forth, the Isle of May is home to over 40,000 Puffins during the breeding season, making it one of the best places in Scotland to see these seabirds.
Craigleith and Bass Rock: Also in the Firth and Forth, and two of the fantastic spots on our Puffin Boat and Castle Tour, are hotspots for puffins and a whole host of other wildlife.
Where can I see Puffins in Scotland?
If you're planning a trip to Scotland and want to see these adorable seabirds, be sure to check out one of these top locations, and even consider hopping on our NEW Puffin Boat Trip and Castle Day tour from Edinburgh. You will be led by one of our incredible tour guides, who will take you to some incredible spots along the way - a perfect day out.
How can I see Puffins in Scotland?
Our first suggestion would be to consider taking a tour with us, Scotland’s Wild. We have a new Puffin day tour from Edinburgh where you’ll get to see an incredible Scottish castle, too.
You can also get in touch with us so we can craft your DREAM tour throughout Scotland. We offer completely personalised tours that you’re sure to remember for years to come!
Other options include, renting a car or taking public transport to get to the locations in Scotland where there are Puffin/wildlife cruises or boat trips.
We hope you’ve found this article useful, interesting and helpful in planning your next Scotland vacation!
We also have an interactive Scotland Map that you can get for absolutely free by joining or mailing list. Fill in the form below in the footer to get instant access.
You’ll never forget your trip to Scotland (especially if you see some Puffins on your trip), feel free to get in touch with us to discuss your next Scotland adventure further.
