Puffin Season in Alaska: A Comprehensive Guide

Alaska's puffin season is a spectacular natural event, drawing bird enthusiasts from around the globe. These charismatic seabirds, primarily the Tufted Puffin (Fratercula cirrhata) and the Horned Puffin (Fratercula corniculata), return to the Alaskan coast each year to breed and raise their young. Understanding the timing, locations, and behaviors of these birds will greatly enhance your viewing experience.

Timing of Puffin Season

The puffin breeding season in Alaska generally spans from late spring to late summer, typically from May to August or early September. The exact timing can vary slightly depending on the specific location and weather conditions, but the core period remains consistent. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Arrival: Puffins begin arriving at their breeding colonies in early May. Tufted Puffins tend to arrive around mid-May, while Horned Puffins typically follow about a week later, towards the end of May.
Peak Breeding Season: The most active period for puffins is during June and July. This is when they are most engaged in courtship, nesting, and raising their chicks. During this time, you'll have the highest chances of seeing puffins actively flying, carrying fish, and interacting with their young.
Departure: By late August and early September, the puffins begin to leave their breeding colonies and return to the open sea, where they spend the majority of their lives.

Puffin Species in Alaska

Two main species of puffins are found in Alaska:

Tufted Puffin (Fratercula cirrhata): This is the more common of the two species in Alaska. They are easily recognizable by their striking black plumage, white face, and bright orange-red beak, which is particularly vibrant during the breeding season. They also have distinctive yellow tufts of feathers that extend from the sides of their heads.
Horned Puffin (Fratercula corniculata): While less common than the Tufted Puffin, the Horned Puffin is still a significant part of Alaska's seabird population. They are characterized by their black plumage, white face, and a black horn-like projection above each eye, along with a yellow beak.

Puffin Behavior and Nesting

Puffins are primarily pelagic birds, meaning they spend most of their lives at sea. They only come to land for the purpose of breeding and nesting. These birds are known for their strong site fidelity, returning to the same nesting locations year after year. Here’s a look at their nesting behavior:

Nesting Sites:
- Tufted Puffins: These puffins typically dig burrows in the soil, often 3 to 6 feet deep, on the tops of islands and headlands. They prefer grassy areas where they can excavate their nests.
- Horned Puffins: Horned Puffins, on the other hand, prefer to nest in rock crevices and natural cavities along cliffs and rocky shorelines.
Breeding: Both species lay only one egg per breeding season. The incubation period lasts for approximately 42 to 47 days. Both parents take turns incubating the egg and feeding the chick.
Feeding and Fledging: The parents feed their chicks a diet of small fish, often carrying multiple fish at once in their beaks. The chicks fledge (leave the nest) after about 45 to 55 days. They typically leave the nest at night to avoid predators.

Prime Locations for Puffin Viewing in Alaska

Alaska offers numerous locations where you can observe puffins in their natural habitat. Here are some of the most popular and reliable spots:

Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge: This vast refuge encompasses numerous islands and coastal areas that are home to large puffin colonies.
- Gillam Bay: A well-known area within the refuge for its diverse seabird populations, including puffins.
- Annette Island: Offers rugged coastlines and rocky outcrops that are ideal for puffin nesting.
- St. George Island: A prime location within the refuge where visitors can observe puffins amidst other seabirds.
- St. Paul Island: Another key location within the Pribilof Islands, known for its large seabird colonies.
Kenai Fjords National Park: This park is renowned for its stunning fjords and abundant wildlife, including puffins. Boat tours often provide excellent viewing opportunities.
Prince William Sound: Several locations within Prince William Sound are known for their puffin populations, including:
- Glacier Island: A popular spot for viewing both Tufted and Horned Puffins.
- Chiswell Islands: Another excellent location for observing puffins and other seabirds.
- Caines Head: Offers opportunities to see puffins along the rugged coastline.
- Emerald Cove: A scenic area where puffins can often be spotted.
Kodiak Island: The coastline and offshore islands around Kodiak Island provide excellent habitats for puffins and are accessible via tours.
Juneau and Southeast Alaska: Many boat tours operate from Juneau and other Southeast Alaskan ports, taking visitors to puffin-rich areas.
Resurrection Bay: A popular spot for boat tours that often include puffin sightings.
Kachemak Bay: Another area where puffins can be observed, often during boat tours.
Prince of Wales Island: Remote areas around this island host significant puffin populations, especially during the breeding season.

Tips for Puffin Watching

To make the most of your puffin-watching experience in Alaska, consider the following tips:

Guided Tours: Joining a guided boat or kayaking tour led by local experts is highly recommended. These guides know the best puffin habitats and can provide valuable insights into the birds' behavior.
Photography: Bring a good camera with a zoom lens to capture detailed images of the puffins without disturbing them.
Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from the puffins, especially during the breeding season. Avoid making loud noises or any actions that might stress the birds.
Weather Preparedness: Alaskan weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers, bring waterproof gear, and be prepared for varying conditions.
Permits and Regulations: Some areas within the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge may require permits or have specific regulations to protect wildlife. Check in advance and adhere to all guidelines.
Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars is essential for spotting puffins from a distance and observing their behavior.
Book in Advance: Tours and accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It's advisable to book your trip well in advance.

Additional Wildlife to Enjoy

While puffins are a major highlight, Alaska’s coastal regions are teeming with other fascinating wildlife. Keep an eye out for:

Seals and Sea Lions
Sea Otters
Various Seabird Species (e.g., murres, gulls, and kittiwakes)
Whales (during certain seasons)

Conservation Efforts

Puffin colonies in Alaska are protected by federal and state laws. These protections are crucial for ensuring the long-term survival of these birds. It is important for visitors to respect these protections and avoid disturbing the birds or their nesting sites. Permits are required to land on most seabird nesting islands to minimize disturbance and ensure the safety of the birds.

Conclusion

Puffin season in Alaska is a truly remarkable experience. By visiting during the peak breeding season (late May to August), exploring key wildlife refuges, and participating in guided tours, you can maximize your chances of encountering these vibrant seabirds in their natural habitat. Always remember to observe responsibly and respect the wildlife to help preserve these magnificent creatures for future generations. Plan your trip carefully, check the latest local guidelines, and be prepared for an unforgettable adventure in the Alaskan wilderness.