Why is Skomer Island's seabird population growing?

The seabird population on Skomer Island is growing due to an abundance of fish, providing plenty of food for chicks, and the absence of predators like rats and foxes.

What do volunteers do on Skomer Island?

Volunteers assist with puffin counts, boat counts of seabird species, checking chick productivity, grey seal monitoring, and the day-to-day running of the island.

Home / Environment / Puffins Flock to Skomer Island Amidst Food Boom

Puffins Flock to Skomer Island Amidst Food Boom

Q: What kind of wildlife can be found on Skomer Island?

Skomer Island is home to puffins, 350,000 breeding pairs of Manx shearwaters, thousands of guillemots and razorbills, grey seals, Skomer voles, reptiles, cetaceans, and moths.

29 Jan

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Summary

Skomer Island's seabird population thrives due to abundant food and lack of predators.
The island supports 350,000 breeding pairs of Manx shearwaters.
Volunteers assist with wildlife monitoring from March to September.

Puffins Flock to Skomer Island Amidst Food Boom

Skomer Island is currently experiencing a significant increase in its seabird population. This growth is primarily linked to an abundance of food, specifically fish, available in the surrounding waters, which provides ample sustenance for the young birds.

The island's success is further bolstered by the absence of common predators such as rats and foxes, creating a safe environment for breeding wildlife. Skomer Island is already a crucial sanctuary for an estimated 350,000 breeding pairs of Manx shearwaters.

Thousands of guillemots and razorbills also call the island home, contributing to its rich biodiversity. Conservation efforts are ongoing, with roles for volunteers to assist in monitoring these populations throughout the spring and summer months.