Birds in This Story
Atlantic Puffin
Latin: Fratercula arctica
Common Tern
Latin: Sterna hirundo
Common Murre
Latin: Uria aalge
Manx Shearwater
Latin: Puffinus puffinus
Osprey
Latin: Pandion haliaetus
Many research teams conducted their island’s annual tern census this past week. Scientists, occasionally joined by excited mainland staff members, lined up side-by-side before carefully tracing the island and counting tern and eider nests. Jenny and Outer Green Island’s censuses ran like well-oiled machines, concluding their counts before lunch. As the saying goes, “Teamwork makes the dream work!”
Both islands reported lower Common Tern counts this year, leading some researchers to speculate whether or not some terns may be taking a year off. Just a few days later, the crew on Stratton Island reported the island's tern population is booming thanks to a 40% increase in this year’s census. It’s the second highest count on Stratton Island ever.
Oh Baby!
It’s a big week for our puffin cams, as the puffins of burrow 59 became proud parents again this week. Willie and Millie have hatched chicks in this burrow for seven straight years. We’re excited to see watch this puffling grow. Want to help choose a name for the new arrival? You can vote by visiting explore.org. While you’re there, explore the new Project Puffin Multiview link. Now you can catch all the action without switching between cams! Check out the burrow, our puffin loafing ledge, and more on explore.org!
Our osprey nest on Hog Island has been quieter but still in action. In the month since losing our beautiful Dory, Skiff has had female suitors stop by the nest. We even saw a mating attempt in late May. Although we won’t have chicks this season, Skiff’s appearances have given hope to the community that we can try again next season. In the meantime, Hog Island summer programming is in full swing underneath the nest – this week adult campers enjoyed the Joy of Birding and teens undertook Coastal Maine Bird Studies.
Island Highlights
Your Support Matters!
As we celebrate the arrival of seabird chicks, we are mindful that the challenges birds face are growing and quickly evolving. By making a gift today, you’re investing in a better future for threatened and endangered seabirds across the globe. Can they count on your support? Donate now!
