Donal Hickey: More power to the puffin — as conservation scope of marine protected areas is extended

Tracking has shown that five million birds, including puffins that breed on Skellig Michael, use the area every year. It’s been described as a 'seabird hotspot' — one of the most significant sites for migratory seabirds in the Atlantic.

A puffin with freshly caught fish in its beak. Picture: Aaron Chown/PA

The puffin is one of our most loved seabirds — its red beak, with blue and white stripes, and contrasting pale cheeks, making it really stand out.

If you’re visiting coastal areas during the holidays, you may spot puffins. Because of the Atlantic, our west coast headlands and islands are among the best in Europe for watching a wide range of marine wildlife.