Burhou puffin population is still flying the nest
Burhou island near Alderney has extended its closed season this year to help its puffin population.
The seabird's breeding season has started later and many puffin chicks are still in their burrows.
Puffins are very sensitive to environmental changes and can be easily disturbed and often fly away.
The population is facing a steady decline, with 176 documented breeding pairs in 2012 compared to 93 in 2017.
The extra week should allow enough time for the remaining puffin chicks to leave their nests without them being disturbed by humans.
Burhou’s closed season was introduced by the States of Alderney in 1987 and most recently included the setup of a Puffin Friendly Zone.
People are given the following advice if they are visiting:
Keep your distance from gull chicks and move slowly on the island
Try to stay on the seaward side of young gulls so if startled they will move inland
Try to navigate round the coast instead of walking through burrowed areas
Avoid the puffin burrow areas marked on signs and the white marker posts
Try not to climb on old stone walls
WATCH: Find out why the extended closure will help the island's puffins.