Worrying drop in puffin numbers on the Farne Islands
The National Trust highlights complexities in tracking puffin populations
A recent survey of puffins on the Farne Islands off the Northumberland coast has shown their numbers have dropped by almost a quarter since 2024.
The National Trust, responsible for managing the internationally acclaimed wildlife haven, recorded 38,500 breeding pairs this year, compared to 50,103 pairs in its last survey. This marks a decline of 23%.
Ben McCarthy, head of nature conservation at the National Trust, said the decline is noteworthy but stressed the importance of viewing it within a wider context.
"Counting puffins is a notoriously complex task," McCarthy said.
"There is no single perfect method, and annual variations in survey conditions, puffin behaviour, and environmental factors all influence the count.
"While the decline in numbers is concerning, it's important to view this year's results within the broader context of global puffin trends."
The National Trust clarified that the puffin population on the Farne Islands was not badly affected by the bird flu outbreaks of 2022 and 2023 as some other species were.
However, potential contributing factors to the recent decline include extreme weather like Storm Arwen, soil erosion, and the growing presence of grey seals that may disturb puffin burrows during breeding season.
Rangers plan to implement measures to deter seals from disrupting puffins during this critical time for the birds.
Sophia Jackson, a ranger working on the Farne Islands, said puffins face threats globally, meaning this decline needs to be analysed in a broader context.
"We know puffins are facing challenges globally, from climate change to shifting food sources," Jackson said.
"What we're seeing on the Farnes is part of a much bigger picture.
"This year's census doesn't necessarily mean puffins are disappearing overnight - but it does reinforce the need for consistent, long-term data."
While puffins may be struggling, the survey revealed positive news for other seabirds in the area. The number of Northern Fulmar breeding pairs has risen from 106 last year to 235. Common Eiders have increased by 50%, and Greater Black-backed Gulls, Herring Gulls, European Shags, and Razorbills are also seeing growth in numbers.
Arctic Terns, noted for their increasing vulnerability due to climate change and food availability, saw over a 26% boost in nesting pairs, climbing from 410 in 2024 to 519.
The 28 Farne Islands, some partially submerged depending on tides, are located around one-and-a-half miles offshore and are internationally recognised as a wildlife sanctuary. The islands attract approximately 200,000 seabirds during every nesting season.