May-2022
Puffin Cruise :: Summer Fun in Maine
Most people know the state of Maine for its rugged coasts, breathtaking natural wonders, and fresh lobster. However, there are plenty of hidden secrets to discover like Atlantic Puffins! With great excitement we booked a puffin cruise with Cap’n Fish’s Cruises.
Puffins have lived on the islands of Maine for centuries but were nearly wiped out in the early 1900’s. The National Audubon Society started Project Puffin in 1973 in an attempt to restore the dwindling population. At this point in time there were only two surviving colonies remaining until Project Puffin began by reintroducing puffins to Eastern Egg Rock.
These birds live in colonies, and the one that inhabits Maine is the southernmost colony in the world.
Puffins are typically found in places like Iceland and Norway, so this colony is a real treat for wildlife enthusiasts in the US.
Sometimes called the “Sea parrot,” Puffins are small, with Maine’s Atlantic Puffin being the smallest puffin species. They have a prominent beak that turns beautiful colors during the mating season.
They resemble a penguin with a black cap and back, white and grey face, and belly. Puffins are excellent swimmers and can dive underwater up to 200 feet, often pulling up a mouthful of small fish to feed their young.
I wasn’t very successful at capturing any close up pictures but the puffin cruise was an incredible way to see these unique birds in their natural habitat! (Tip: Afterwards, walk into town and treat yourself to some blueberry ice cream at Downeast Ice Cream Factory! It’s the best we had during our entire trip.)
Disclosure: Burbs2Abroad traveled to the above location as guests and was not compensated for this review. As always, our opinions are our own.)
Time of Year Visited: June 2021.
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