What To Know
- On the Channel Island of Alderney, the local Wildlife Trust has recorded 330 nests of Atlantic puffins, an endangered bird species.
- Background on the conservation effortsSince 2005, the Alderney Wildlife Trust has been diligently observing the Atlantic puffins, striving to increase their numbers on Burhou Island.
- The remarkable growth in nest numbersThe puffin nests have surged from 120 to 330 since the initial study in 2005.
On the Channel Island of Alderney, the local Wildlife Trust has recorded 330 nests of Atlantic puffins, an endangered bird species. The number of nests has tripled in nearly 20 years since the organization began monitoring these birds’ population.
background on the conservation efforts
Since 2005, the Alderney Wildlife Trust has been diligently observing the Atlantic puffins, striving to increase their numbers on Burhou Island. This small island, located less than a mile northwest of Alderney, now boasts a significant increase in active nests.
the remarkable growth in nest numbers
The puffin nests have surged from 120 to 330 since the initial study in 2005. This remarkable growth is attributed to dedicated conservation efforts and favorable environmental conditions on the island.
- Alderney’s strategic location offers a unique ecosystem for puffins.
- Continuous monitoring and protection measures have been implemented by local organizations.
understanding the atlantic puffin
The Atlantic puffin, known scientifically as Fratercula arctica, is a seabird native to the North Atlantic Ocean. It breeds on remote northern European coasts and parts of North America. Recognizable by its colorful triangular beak, this bird remains vulnerable despite recent population increases.
challenges faced by atlantic puffins
Puffins continue to face numerous threats due to climate change, hunting practices—especially in Iceland—and disorientation caused by artificial lights that mislead fledglings during their initial flights.
- Climate change disrupts food availability and breeding cycles.
- Puffin chicks can be confused by artificial lights leading them away from safe feeding grounds.
biodiversity richness of channel islands
The Channel Islands—comprising Alderney, Jersey, Guernsey, Sark, and Herm—are renowned for their rich biodiversity. These islands feature diverse landscapes from heathlands to fields filled with wildflowers such as orchids.
- Marine life thrives with various fish and crustacean species documented annually thanks to proximity to English Channel waters.
- Mammalian marine populations like seals also find refuge here alongside numerous bird species including our highlighted puffins.
