Puffins are a national treasure in Iceland, which has the largest colony in the world. Yet, for decades, their numbers have been dwindling. Besides a lack of sandeels, climate change and the emerging threat of bird flu are all adding further pressures. Especially young birds are vulnerable to anthropogenic threats. Light pollution can confuse the pufflings, causing them to fly inland instead of out to sea. With the help of citizen scientists and engaged locals, the Sea Life Trust on the island Heimaey is the only organization in the country that rescues and rehabilitates the young seabirds. Besides their operations, scientists at the South Iceland Research Center collaborate with the animal rescue workers to gather data about the puffins with the aim to develop population conservation strategies.
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