Date :
23/04/2014
The islands of the Firth of Forth including Craigleith, Fidra and the Isle of May are home to around 90,000 puffins and Puffin Fest aims to inspire both locals and visitors alike to learn more about Scotland’s most popular seabird, whilst also highlighting the importance of conserving and protecting Scotland's seabirds for future generations.
For the past few years, throughout Scotland, puffins have suffered from lack of food, ferocious storms and flooded burrows: in addition, an invasive alien plant decimated puffin populations on islands just offshore from North Berwick. Many of these issues appear to be linked to climate change.
Tom Brock OBE, Chief Executive of the Scottish Seabird Centre, said: "Puffins are one of the world’s favourite and most distinctive animals. Scotland’s first ever Puffin Fest will celebrate their homecoming in an exciting 10 days of activities. Whether you are a family looking for a fun day out or you are a wildlife or photography enthusiast, Puffin Fest will have something for everyone!"
The ten-day festival will include opportunities to spot puffins in their natural habitat via specially commissioned Puffin Express boat trips, as well as using the Discovery Centre’s amazing interactive live cameras which are controlled by visitors.
Events will also offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy a Puffin Trail through the Centre; Puffin Picnics and Parties; arts, crafts and storytelling activities for all ages; plus the chance to meet wildlife experts who will share insights into the life of this distinctive seabird.
The full Scottish Seabird Centre Puffin Fest programme will be announced soon.
Image (c) Laurie Campbell.
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For more information on the Scottish Seabird Centre visit www.seabird.org