They’re early this year! Watch everyone’s favourite bird species arrive in Ireland for nesting season.
The puffin is a much-loved bird across the world, and it’s not hard to see why. With their expressive eyes and colourful beaks, they definitely have the cute factor.
In fact, thousands of visitors come in their droves to the west coast of Ireland, hoping to catch a glimpse of the birds as they return to Ireland every year for their nesting period.
And a lucky TikToker got to see their arrival firsthand, and did us all a favour by sharing their experience.
Caught on camera – the return of the puffins
The video has been making the rounds on social media and is racking up thousands of views already.
The clip, which was posted on TikTok by user Joshua Nueva, shows the beautiful birds arriving in Ireland, specifically to the cliffs near Inishturk Island in County Mayo.
Surely ready for a rest after their long journey, they are seen soaring through the sky as onlookers admire them from below.
A rare spectacle – they’re a bit on the early side
Although puffins visit Ireland every year, what is unusual about this video is the timing. The usual nesting period for puffins is late May to June. But this year, they have arrived a full month earlier than the usual estimate.
Why they have arrived so soon is not exactly known, but will most likely be due to unseasonable weather. The truth is that the birds follow their own schedule, and there will always be a slight variance in when they arrive.
The reaction – TikTok famous?
Users on TikTok have been quick to comment on the beauty of one of Ireland’s favourite birds. Especially against the backdrop of the stunning coastal cliffs.
Comments like “beautiful!” and “unbelievable!” abound, while others are enquiring where they need to visit to see the sight for themselves.
Where can I see puffins? – the best places in Ireland to spot them
The County Mayo coast isn’t the only place to spot these birds.
If you visit at the right time of year, you’ll have a chance of seeing puffins almost anywhere off the west coast of Ireland. But there are some specific locations that tend to attract the stunning bird species.
The Skellig Islands are known for their film-worthy appearance, even serving as a backdrop in a Star Wars movie. But they are also a popular breeding spot for puffins.
You’ll also be able to spot the bird on Rathlin Island, off the Causeway Coast, which is also home to a puffin sanctuary. Two other places where you are likely to see them are the Saltee Islands in County Wexford and Inisbofin Island in Connemara.
But even if you don’t quite make it to the west coast in time to spot them, at least there are videos like this one out there to see these beautiful birds from afar!
READ ON: Where to see puffins in Ireland in 2024.
