Iconic seabird islands join RSPB nature reserve network

Scotland’s seas are home to some of the most iconic wildlife on Earth.

Now Bass Rock, one of the world’s largest Gannet colonies, and Craigleith island, where thousands of Puffins breed each year, are the newest additions to RSPB’s nature reserve network.

An exciting new partnership with the Scottish Seabird Centre will help ensure they are protected for generations to come.

This has been made possible thanks to the National Heritage Memorial Fund, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and generous private donors.

Bass Rock and Craigleith island are among the UK’s most significant seabird colonies, providing vital habitat for some of our most-loved species including Puffins and Gannets. These remarkable places have inspired thousands of people to love Scotland’s wildlife.

With 70% of Scotland’s seabird species in decline, the timing is critical. Scotland’s seabirds are under significant pressure from threats including avian flu, climate change, declining food supplies due to over-fishing, and invasive non-native species on some of their breeding colonies.

Amid these challenges, the next chapter for these islands offers some hope for seabirds. Partnership with the Scottish Seabird Centre will enable the two organisations to build on coordinated conservation efforts and secure a brighter future for the species we love.

Harry Huyton, CEO, Scottish Seabird Centre said: “Bass Rock and Craigleith are among the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, and their integration into the RSPB’s nature reserve network is a historic day for Scottish nature. This ambitious partnership between the Scottish Seabird Centre and the RSPB builds on years of dedicated stewardship, where our volunteers, local communities, and the Dalrymple family have worked tirelessly to restore these islands—most notably quadrupling Craigleith’s puffin population despite national declines.

"Together with RSPB Scotland, we will ensure these vital sanctuaries are conserved forever, deepen public connection to these incredible places, and inspire collective action to protect Scotland’s iconic seabirds for generations to come.” 

RSPB Scotland and the Scottish Seabird Centre will undertake practical conservation management, research and monitoring, community engagement and advocacy for strong policies to protect marine wildlife.

Together, we’re protecting our most-loved seabird islands and reconnecting people with the wildlife that defines Scotland’s coasts.