The Puffin Man: Bringing Back Maine's Puffin Population

The Beginning of Project Puffin

In 1973, a young biologist named Steven Kress, also known as The Puffin Man, set out to bring puffins back to the coast of Maine after a century of absence. Despite facing criticism and doubt from fellow scientists, Kress was determined to make a difference.

The Groundbreaking Project

Kress initiated Project Puffin by translocating 6 10-day-old puffins from Newfoundland to Eastern Egg Rock, an island off Maine's coast. These puffins were reared and tagged before being released into the wild. Four years later, they returned, marking the success of the project's first phase.

The Controversial Decoy Strategy

To further attract puffins to Eastern Egg Rock, Kress placed puffin decoys and mirrors around the island. This innovative tactic was met with skepticism, but it proved to be effective. The puffin population began to grow as more birds were drawn to the area.

A Triumphant Outcome

Today, thanks to Steven Kress's persistence and unconventional methods, there are now over 3,000 puffins in the Maine area. His pioneering techniques have also been instrumental in restoring seabird populations globally.

Conclusion

The story of The Puffin Man and Project Puffin serves as a testament to the power of dedication and innovation in conservation efforts. Despite facing opposition, Steven Kress's unwavering belief in his vision ultimately led to the successful revival of Maine's puffin population.