The Treshnish Isles, situated in the west coast of Scotland, is one of the fine locations in the world to find Puffins in their natural habitat. These islands are the part of the Inner Hebrides and it is an excellent chance to see Scotlands wildlife, especially, puffins. These birds with the colorful bills and cute manners as well as the unique colony of puffins attract tourists from all over the world to this rather deserted and picturesque island. It is not only the Puffins that one gets to see while island hopping to the Treshnish Isles but the beautiful hard and soft scenery and serene environment that is synonymous with Scotland.

Why Visit the Treshnish Isles to See Puffins?

Puffins Scotland: A Wildlife Spectacle

Scotland is famous for its stunning and unique wildlife and puffins are surely in the list of Scotlands most endearing creatures. A great opportunity to watch these cute birds is the Treshnish Isles situated near the Isle of Mull. The Treshnish Isles are also home to puffins with their colorful beak and awkward way of walking as if they have two left feet. In summer, thousands of puffins fly to these islands for breeding purposes and this is a wonderful show to watch. Their colonies can be observed to nest in burrows along the grassy slopes and one can watch them fly, fish and even feed young ones.

Unique Wildlife and Scenery of the Treshnish Isles

Apart from the puffins, the Treshnish Isles are famous for the beautiful nature and diverse wildlife of the region. Other species of seabirds that may be sighted by visitors include guillemots, razorbills and fulmars making the islands a bird watchers haven. The rocky cliffs, the shores and the beautiful meadows all of which are covered by wild flowers provide the perfect environment for viewing wildlife. This is especially because the islands are located in a remote environment hence making them seem like they are out of this world. Seals can be seen resting on the rocks or playing in the water around the Treshnish Isles adding to the appeal of the islands being a rich and active wildlife region.

Best Time to See Puffins in the Treshnish Isles

Puffin Breeding Season: When to Plan Your Visit

Puffins are found in the Treshnish Isles and the best time to visit them is during their breeding period that is from April up to August. This is the period when these birds come from the sea to breed and reproduce their young ones. The best time to watch the puffins is in June and July as there are many puffin families as well as parents are feeding their young ones. At this time of the year, puffins are very busy flying from the sea to the cliffs and back, to their burrows with full beaks of fish for the young ones. If your planning to visit these places, then it is preferable that you do so during these months as this will increase your chances of seeing these lovely birds at work.

Weather and Conditions in the Treshnish Isles

The climate in the Treshnish Isles is changeable as can be expected of any region in Scotland where it can be sunny in the morning and raining in the afternoon. But the best season for observing the flight of the birds is considered to be summer for the warm temperature and long days. The climate is also quite unpredictable; therefore, it is advised that visitors come with an umbrella and wear appropriate foot wear as the ground is occasionally, rocky. Mist or rain which may sometimes hinder the visibility of the islands may also be an added beauty of the islands. In good weather, stunning views of the surrounding Hebridean islands are possible; but even if the trip is in stormy, misty conditions, few could regret the decision to see puffins.

How to Get to the Treshnish Isles

Transportation Options from Mainland Scotland

The Treshnish Isles are situated off the coast of Scotland and there are several ways to get to these islands; however, the most common way is from the Isle of Mull that acts as the base for most of the trips to the islands. To get to Mull, you can take a ferry from Oban where there are scheduled boats to Craignure, on the Isle of Mull. It is then, a picturesque drive or bus ride to the starting point of the boats to the Treshnish Isles. For those who are arriving from distant areas, then Glasgow is the nearest large city from where you can take a train or bus to Oban and then take a ferry to Mull.

Guided Tours and Boat Trips to the Isles

Treshnish Isles can only be accessed via a tour or a boat, which are usually available from the Isle of Mull or the neighbouring Isle of Iona. Daily tours are available during the puffin season which ranges from May to August with many operators involved. These guided tours not only transport the visitors, but also entail an interpretation of the wildlife and histories of the islands. Such excursions involve chances to see seals and other seabirds on the way there and back as well as the chance to view them in their natural habitat. These tours are quite popular and therefore it is recommendable that you pre-book them to avoid missing on them.

Conclusion

The Treshnish Isles are ideal for observing one of the most significant symbols of Scotland puffins in the wild. The view of the countryside and the sea as well as the beauty of the diverse fauna make a trip to the Treshnish Isles rather enjoyable. The best way to see the puffin in their natural environment is through observing them go through their activities in their natural habitats, all this can be done by: Whether it be that you are an experienced bird watcher or simply someone who wants to enjoy nature, a visit to the Treshnish Isles for puffin viewing is one that is sure to be very inspiring and unforgettable.