Nesting Islands

Seabirds live over the open ocean, returning to land only once a year to nest. Maine's coastal islands provide nesting places for a diverse assemblage of seabirds, including terns (Arctic, Common and the endangered Roseate), puffins, guillemots, razorbills, cormorants (Double-crested and Great), Leach's storm petrels, gulls (Herring, Great Black-backed and Laughing) and the Common Eider (although not a true seabird).

Machias Seal Island Light

Their survival depends on suitable nesting habitat. Of the 4,600 coastal islands in Maine, 294 have been designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as nationally significant seabird nesting islands. There is some form of federal, state or private protection for 169 of these nesting islands. But the remaining 125 are under increasing pressure from coastal developmnt and recreational uses.

Two Bush Island Light

Friends of Maine Seabird Islands brings together groups and individuals who are committed to preserving and protecting these islands and the bird species who are dependent upon them.

Restoring Seabirds in the Gulf of Maine

Metinic Island

What do kayakers and gulls have in common? They both pose a hazard for nesting tern colonies on Metinic Island. Since 1991, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologists and other wildlife biologists have been restoring terns by removing or scaring away gulls and restricing public access (more about seabird restoration...).