Up-Close Puffin Encounter: My Magical Dawn in Elliston, Newfoundland
Spotting puffins up close in Elliston, Newfoundland, Canada, was an unparalleled thrill. If you're wondering where to see puffins in Canada, this hidden gem is a must-visit during your Newfoundland adventure!
My alarm blared at 5:30 a.m., and instant regret hit. But my friend Susan and I had a pact to meet in the lobby at 5:45 a.m.—no backing out, especially for puffins!
The day before, we'd explored the quaint town of Elliston hoping for a close encounter. I've photographed puffins before in Scotland's Treshnish Isles, yet the excitement for Elliston's colony felt just as fresh.
Our initial afternoon visit in early August's unusual heat revealed puffins on a distant island, about 100 feet offshore—no human access. Through my telephoto lens, I captured shots from afar, but disappointment lingered.
My first wild puffin sighting in Scotland was magical—sitting mere feet from them as they nested and chattered like lawnmowers.
That evening, the owner of Trinity's Artisan Inn and Twine Loft shared pro tips for prime puffin viewing in Elliston.
We returned at dawn, sun rising over the horizon. I raced down the trail, eager to be first. At the hilltop lookout, three human early birds already waited with cameras—no puffins in sight.
Susan and I perched cliffside, admiring the vista as puffins nested, fished, and soared. I wished one would cross to us.
An hour later, the others left. My resolve waned until a puffin landed 50 feet behind us.
"Susan," I whispered, "puffin at the cliff edge."
Instinctively, we dropped to our stomachs, cameras ready.
The bold puffin hopped closer, pausing 10 feet away. I stifled giggles as it waddled inches from our faces for a photoshoot.
The photographer in me declared: "Best moment ever."
Bugs nipped my legs, but magic prevailed. It summoned a friend—now two within arm's reach.
So close, I switched to my iPhone. Excitement delayed my video until later.
Post-video, Susan alerted: "Christy! Another to your left."
It joined for a "puffin summit." Giggles ensued amid rapid shots.
Eventually, they flew off for more fish.
More Canada Travel Inspiration:
Essential Travel Tips for North Vancouver Island
What to Pack for a Winter Trip to Canada
My 25 Best Travel Tips
Top 10 Winter Activities in Jasper National Park
A Roadtrippers Guide to British Columbia
Kayaking With Whales in Johnstone Strait
5 Unforgettable Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime
A Day With Wild Grizzly Bears on Vancouver Island
Pin it!
