Vulnerable seabirds found nesting on Isle of Muck | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleJonathan McCambridgeFriday 14 November 2025 02:01 GMTPuffin blown 100 miles from seaside nest found in Hereford gardenPuffins have been discovered nesting on the Isle of Muck, County Antrim, for the first time in a quarter of a century, marking a significant milestone for vulnerable seabirds in Northern Ireland.This comeback is attributed to a dedicated seabird recovery project initiated by Ulster Wildlife in 2017, primarily focused on eradicating invasive brown rats that prey on seabird eggs and chicks.After five puffins were observed prospecting the island in 2024, two were captured on camera emerging from a nesting burrow this summer, providing definitive proof of breeding.Andy Crory, Ulster Wildlife's nature reserves manager, emphasised that this discovery, though seemingly small, is a huge moment that proves seabird restoration efforts can succeed against global challenges.The charity has warned the public that the Isle of Muck Nature Reserve is not accessible and urged people to observe from a safe distance to give the returning puffins the best chance to settle and breed successfully.In fullPuffins return to nature reserve for first time in 25 yearsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in