Celebrate the return of Cannon Beach’s beloved tufted puffins as they return to iconic Haystack Rock for nesting season.
Join the Haystack Rock Awareness Program (HRAP) for their annual Puffin Welcome Celebration on April 13th, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM in Cannon Beach. This event offers educational activities, talks, demonstrations, and a chance to witness the beauty of these iconic sea birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beachgoer, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
Event Schedule
8:00-12:00 pm: Open House
Learn more about the Haystack Rock Awareness Program, the Wildlife Center of the North Coast, and Friends of Haystack Rock.
9:00 – 9:30: Puffinology 101: Exploring the World of Tufted Puffin
Join a 30-minute discussion on tufted puffins! (Available on Instagram/FB live)
10:00-10:30: Puffin Pursuit: Master the Art of Spotting Tufted Puffins.
Learn the best tips and tricks for spotting tufted puffins. Spotting scopes and binoculars will be provided.
10:45-11:00 Predator Game
Become a tufted puffin! Learn the challenges our feather friends face through this interactive game.
11:30: Tufted Puffin Costume Contest
Don your finest tufted puffin costume for a chance to win items generously donated by Friends of Haystack Rock & Salty Raven. All participants must check-in at the main table by 10:00 AM. The winner will be announced at 11:30 AM.
Puffin 101
Tufted Puffin
Tufted puffins are seabirds that nest on rocky cliffs and offshore islands along the Pacific Coast, including Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach. They are easily recognizable by their colorful bills, striking plumage, and distinctive tufts of feathers on their heads.
Nesting Season
Puffins typically arrive at Haystack Rock in late March or early April to begin nesting. They dig burrows in the grassy areas on top of the rock or in the surrounding cliffs, where they lay their eggs and raise their chicks.
Best Viewing Times
The best times to view puffins at Haystack Rock are during low tide when the birds are closer to shore and more visible. Early morning or late afternoon tend to be the most active times for puffin activity, as they return to their nests with food for their chicks.
Responsible Viewing
When observing puffins and other wildlife, it’s important to do so responsibly to minimize disturbance to the animals and their habitat. Visitors should stay on designated viewing areas and avoid getting too close to nesting sites to prevent stress or disturbance to the birds.
Conservation Efforts
Puffins face threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, making conservation efforts crucial for their survival. Organizations like the Haystack Rock Awareness Program work to protect and preserve the nesting sites and educate the public about the importance of seabird conservation.
Seeing puffins at Haystack Rock in stunning Cannon Beach is a unique and memorable experience for visitors to the Oregon Coast. It’s a chance to witness these fascinating birds in their natural habitat and learn about the importance of protecting their nesting sites for future generations to enjoy.
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