Where to See Puffins in Nova Scotia

Looking to see puffins in Nova Scotia? We’ve got you covered!

Nova Scotia, Canada is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and seascapes, as well as a wide variety of wildlife, including the beloved puffin.

And let me tell you, they are just as cute looking in person, as they are in all the photos you’ve seen. The kids couldn’t stop talking about them during our trip to Nova Scotia last summer!

So whether you’re a seasoned birder or just looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, Nova Scotia has plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with these charming birds.

Are Puffins Found in Nova Scotia?

Yes, puffins can be found in Nova Scotia.

While they are not as common in Nova Scotia as they are in some other parts of the world, there are several locations along the coast where you can see these charming birds.

Keep in mind that puffins are a protected species in Nova Scotia, so it’s important to view them from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them during the breeding season.

🪶 Fun Fact: Puffins live to be about 20 years old. They reach maturity at about 5 years of age, which is when they come to shore to find a mate.

Where Can You See Puffins in Nova Scotia?

If you’re planning a trip to Nova Scotia and hoping to catch a glimpse of some puffins, you’re in luck! This beautiful Canadian province is home to a number of great spots for viewing these adorable seabirds in their natural habitat.

Here are some of the best places to see puffins in Nova Scotia:

🪶 Bird Islands

Located off the coast of Cape Breton Island, the Bird Islands are a protected nature reserve that is home to the largest colony of puffins in Nova Scotia.

Of course, the islands are also home to several other species of seabirds, such as kittiwakes, guillemots, and shearwaters, making for an unforgettable birdwatching experience.

To get up close to these cute little birds, you can take a guided boat tour from the nearby Englishtown.

🪶 Cape Breton Island

Cape Breton Island is an absolute must-visit destination if you are looking to see puffins in Nova Scotia. The island boasts several seabird colonies, including one at the northernmost point in Cape North.

Of course, the best way to see the puffins up close would be to hop on a guided boat tour. During the summer, the tour will take you to a small island where you will have the opportunity to see puffins, razorbills, and other seabirds at their nesting sites.

🪶 Seal Island

Located off the southern coast of Nova Scotia, Seal Island is another great spot to see a large colony of Atlantic puffins in action.

And while puffins may be your focus, you are sure to spot other seabird species that are common to this little island. Birds like terns, gulls, and cormorants also make Seal Island their home.

If you are hoping to get can get a closer look at the puffins, our recommendation is to take a guided boat tour from the nearby town of Barrington.

🪶 Tancook Island

Just off the coast of Eastern Passage, near Lunenberg, Tern Island is a great spot to see puffins in the summer months.

Home to another large colony of puffins, Tancook Island also plays host to other bird species like razorbills and common murres.

You can easily reach Tancook Island by taking a ferry from the town of Chester.

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🪶 Brier Island

Located off the southwestern coast of Nova Scotia at the entrance to the Bay of Fundy, Brier Island is a popular spot for whale-watching and bird-watching.

This tiny island is not only home to a large colony of puffins, but you will also find several other seabirds like razorbills, gannets, and common murres.

To get up close to these birds, you can take a boat tour from the nearby town of Westport.

🪶 Fun Fact: Puffins are extremely curious birds. They will tend to rush over to watch another pair of puffins billing or fighting. So just like a schoolyard brawl, there will end up being a crowd of spectators looking on!

Are There Puffins at Peggy’s Cove?

Puffins are not typically found at Peggy’s Cove, as it is not a known breeding location for these birds.

However, you may be able to spot other seabirds in the area, such as gulls, cormorants, and terns.

If you’re specifically interested in seeing puffins, it’s best to head to one of the known puffin-watching locations in Nova Scotia that we mentioned above.

In fact, one of Nova Scotia’s most popular puffin boat tours actually departs from Peggy’s Cove. So if you are staying in the area, it’s pretty convenient.

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Where Can I See Puffins in the Bay of Fundy?

While puffins are not typically found in the Bay of Fundy itself, there are several nearby locations where you can see these charming birds.

One of the best places to see puffins near the Bay of Fundy is Brier Island, which is located off the southwestern coast of Nova Scotia.

As we mentioned, this small island is also home to a large colony of Atlantic puffins, as well as other seabirds like razorbills, gannets, and common murres.

How Can You See Puffins in Nova Scotia?

The best way to see puffins in Nova Scotia is with a boat tour.

Since puffins are not found on the mainland, a boat tour will offer the best opportunity to get up close to these awesome birds.

Boat tours will also provide you with a knowledgeable local guide, who will teach you about the area.

If you are headed out on a boat tour, don’t forget your binoculars and a good zoom lens for your camera. During our puffin cruise, we didn’t bring these things, not realizing that the puffins will still be quite a distance away.

What is the Best Time of Year to See Puffins in Nova Scotia?

The best time of the year to see puffins in Nova Scotia is during the summer months.

Puffins spend the majority of their life at sea. However, the summer is when these birds migrate to the region to nest and breed.

The puffin season typically runs from May to September, with June and July being the peak months for puffin-watching.

During this time, you’ll have the best chance of seeing these birds as they nest on rocky cliffs along the coastline.

🪶 Fun Fact: Puffins mate for life. They will come back to the same island to find their mate and even use the same nesting site year after year.

When are Puffins Most Active?

Puffins are most active during the breeding season.

As we mentioned, the breeding season typically runs from May to September. During this time, puffins are busy building nests, incubating eggs, and raising their young.

The peak months for puffin sightings are June and July. This is when they are more active and visible on land.

Keep in mind that puffins are primarily diurnal, meaning they are active during the daytime hours and tend to rest and sleep at night.

🪶 Fun Fact: After hatching, puffin chicks are called Pufflings. How cute is that!!

What to Pack for a Puffin Tour in Nova Scotia

If you’re planning a puffin tour in Nova Scotia, there are several things that you will need to pack for the trip. Here are some essentials to bring along:

Binoculars – A good pair of binoculars is essential for getting an up-close view of the puffins. Look for binoculars with a magnification of at least 8x.
Camera – You’ll definitely want to capture some photos of these adorable birds, so make sure to bring a camera with a telephoto lens. A waterproof camera is also a good option if you’re taking a boat tour.
Warm Layers – Even in the summer months, the weather in Nova Scotia can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to bring along some warm layers. A waterproof jacket or poncho is also a must if you’re taking a boat tour.
Comfortable Shoes – Make sure to wear comfortable shoes with good traction. You will definitely appreciate it when trying to walk around a moving boat with a wet deck!
Sun Protection – Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Snacks and Water – You’ll want to stay hydrated and fueled up during your puffin tour, so bring along some snacks and a water bottle.

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With these essentials in your bag, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable puffin-watching experience in Nova Scotia!

🪶 Fun Fact: Puffins have a lot of trouble landing! They will often crash land into the ocean, or hit the ground tumbling. As a result, they often bowl over other puffins that get in their way.

Where to Stay in Nova Scotia Before Your Puffin Tour?

If you’re planning a puffin tour in Nova Scotia, you’ll want to make sure you have comfortable and convenient accommodations for your trip. Here are some great places to stay before your puffin tour:

Cape Breton Island

The three most popular options for accommodations in Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia:

Telegraph House Motel: Located in Baddeck, this incredible motel is located steps away from the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. There is even an onsite restaurant serving fresh local cuisine, as well as live music on certain nights.
The Water’s Edge Inn & Gallery: Located in Baddeck, this gorgeous Inn overlooks the Bras d’Or Lakes. With a continental breakfast included, this inn also has an on-site gallery, featuring artwork and fine crafts.
Auberge Gisele’s Inn: This luxury inn is located in Baddeck and offers elegant rooms with gorgeous garden or sea views. It features a restaurant and access to nearby hiking trails.

Peggy’s Cove

As Peggy’s Cove is a small community with limited accommodations, there are only a few places to stay in the area. Some of the top-rated options include:

Clifty Cove Motel: A charming family-run motel offering comfortable oceanfront rooms. The motel is located just 3 km (1.9 miles) from Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse.
Oceanstone Seaside Resort: A boutique resort featuring oceanfront cottages and suites, perfect for those looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay.

No matter where you decide to stay, be sure to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak puffin season in the summer months.

With comfortable and convenient accommodations, you’ll be ready for an unforgettable puffin tour in Nova Scotia!

🏨 Check prices and availability for all Nova Scotia hotels here.

Tips for Spotting Puffins in Nova Scotia

If you’re planning a puffin-watching trip to Nova Scotia, here are some tips for spotting these adorable birds:

Know where to look – The best places to see puffins in Nova Scotia are along the rocky coastlines and islands in the Bay of Fundy. Some top spots include the Bird Islands, Briar Island, Seal Island, Cape Breton and the Tancook Islands.
Take a boat tour – Many of the top puffin-watching spots in Nova Scotia are only accessible by boat. Book a boat tour with a reputable company that specializes in bird-watching to increase your chances of seeing puffins.
Use binoculars – Puffins are small birds and can be hard to spot with the naked eye. Bring a good pair of binoculars with you to get an up-close view of these charming birds.
Visit during breeding season – Puffins are only in Nova Scotia during the breeding season, which runs from May to September. Visit during the peak months of June and July for the best chance of seeing these birds.
Dress for the weather – The coast of Nova Scotia can be chilly and windy, even in the summer months. Dress in layers with a windproof jacket that will keep you comfortable longer. This means a better puffin-viewing experience!
Watch for flying patterns – Puffins have a distinctive flying pattern, with quick wing beats followed by a glide close to the water’s surface. Keep an eye out for this unique flight pattern to spot puffins in flight.

🪶 Fun Fact: Puffins are poor fliers. Not only do they have difficulty going airborne, but they also need to flap their wings a jaw-dropping 300 to 400 times per minute just to stay aloft!

Are There Puffins in Nova Scotia – FAQs

Do puffins live in Nova Scotia?

Yes, Atlantic puffins can be found in certain areas of Nova Scotia, particularly on small islands off the coast and in protected coastal reserves.

Are puffins friendly towards humans?

While puffins may appear friendly and curious around humans, they are actually wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect. It’s important to view them from a safe distance and avoid approaching their nesting sites or disturbing their natural habitat.

How far out to sea do puffins go?

Puffins are skilled swimmers and can dive up to 60 meters deep, but they usually stay within a few kilometers of the shore and their nesting colonies.

What time of day do puffins come out?

Puffins are typically active during the daytime, with peak activity around dawn and dusk when they are feeding. They tend to retreat to their burrows or roost on cliffs during the middle of the day.

Are puffins related to penguins?

Although puffins and penguins share some similarities, they are not closely related. Puffins are seabirds that belong to the family Alcidae, while penguins are flightless birds that belong to the family Spheniscidae.

Are puffins birds or fish?

Puffins are birds, not fish. They are members of the Alcidae family, which also includes guillemots and razorbills.

Where do Atlantic puffins go in the winter?

During the winter, Atlantic puffins usually spend their time out at sea, far away from land. They may migrate to different areas depending on their feeding needs and the weather conditions.

Are puffins good at swimming?

Yes, puffins are excellent swimmers and can dive up to 200 feet underwater to catch small fish and crustaceans. They use their wings to “fly” underwater, propelling themselves through the water with their webbed feet.

Can you see puffins in Nova Scotia in September?

Yes, it is possible to see puffins in Nova Scotia in September. While the puffins start to leave the area in late August to early September to begin their migration south, there are still some puffins that remain in the area during September.

What is a large group of puffins called?

A large group of puffins is called a “burrow” or a “colony”.

Can you eat puffins?

Technically, yes, puffins have been eaten as a traditional food in some regions. However, in many places, puffins are now protected and it is illegal to hunt or eat them.

What is the nickname of the puffin?

The puffin is sometimes nicknamed the “sea parrot” due to its brightly colored beak and its ability to “fly” through the water while swimming.

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Can You See Puffins in Nova Scotia – Final Thoughts

Nova Scotia is a wonderful place to see puffins in their natural habitat. No matter where you decide to take a boat tour, you’re sure to be captivated by these charming and photogenic birds.

Just remember to bring your binoculars, dress in layers, and plan your visit during the peak puffin season for the best chance of spotting them.

Trust us when we say, enjoying close-up views of these delightful seabirds will be memories that will last a lifetime.