The Puffins of the Farne Islands

As the sun rises over the North Sea, a small group of islands off the coast of Northumberland, UK, come to life. This is the Farne Islands, a place where the wildlife thrives in abundance. And amongst the many species that call these islands home, there is one that stands out - the puffin. A colourful beautiful clown like bird. In this blog, we will explore the world of photographing puffins on the Farne Islands, UK.




The Farne Islands are a group of around 15-20 islands, depending on the tide. They are located two to three miles off the coast of Northumberland and are a protected nature reserve. The islands have been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to their importance for breeding seabirds. Puffins are one of the many seabirds that breed on these islands.

Puffins are small, colorful seabirds that are instantly recognizable. They have a distinctive beak that is brightly colored in the breeding season, which runs from late April to early August. The Farne Islands are home to one of the largest colonies of puffins in the UK, with over 40,000 breeding pairs.




Photographing puffins on the Farne Islands can be a unique and rewarding experience. To get the best shots, it is important to understand the behavior and habits of these birds. Puffins are very social birds and can often be found in large groups. They are also very curious and will often approach people, making them excellent subjects for photography.

One of the best places to photograph puffins on the Farne Islands is on Inner Farne Island. This island has the largest colony of puffins and is also home to other seabirds such as razorbills, guillemots, and terns. The island can only be accessed by boat, and visitors must purchase a ticket from the National Trust. Once on the island, visitors must stick to the designated paths to avoid disturbing the wildlife.




To photograph puffins, a telephoto lens is essential. Puffins can be quite small, and a telephoto lens will allow you to get close-up shots without disturbing the birds. A tripod is also useful, as it will help to steady the camera and prevent camera shake.

When photographing puffins, it is important to be patient and wait for the right moment. Puffins are very active birds, and they are constantly moving around. They can be seen flying, diving, and swimming, so there are plenty of opportunities to get some great shots. It is also important to be aware of the light conditions, as this can have a significant impact on the quality of your photos.




In conclusion, photographing puffins on the Farne Islands is a unique and rewarding experience. The islands are home to one of the largest colonies of puffins in the UK, and with a little patience and the right equipment, you can capture some stunning images. So if you are a wildlife photographer or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, a trip to the Farne Islands to photograph puffins is something you won't want to miss.

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