How to Make a Puffin Habitat

Puffins are winged birds that are similar to penguins in habitat and diet. Unlike penguins, however, puffins can and do fly quite often. In most zoos, you'll find the puffins in the same area as the penguins and other arctic animals if not the same exhibit. According to the New Hampshire Public Television site "Nature Works," in the wild, "the Atlantic puffin can be found on rocky coasts in the Northern Atlantic during breeding season and on the open ocean in nonbreeding season."

Things You'll Need

  • Rocks
  • Twigs
  • Pool(s)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plan out your enclosure on paper. Use blueprints or detailed sketches to lay out the size, location and materials for the puffin habitat.

    • 2

      Install plexiglass on the outer edges of enclosure. This will protect the puffins and allow them to see and be seen.

    • 3

      Incorporate a rocky terrain into the habitat. You can do this by building around an existing spot, importing large rocks or boulders or installing imitation materials to serve the same purpose.

    • 4

      Include a large pool or swimming area. Puffins are marine birds like penguins and spend a good portion of their life in the water. The water should be on the cooler to cold side.

    • 5

      Collect a large amount of twigs and brush. The puffins will use this material to build their nests and for warmth.

    • 6

      Make your enclosure climate-controlled or set up one outside in a cold weather area. Puffins are used to colder temperatures and are at home in colder areas, such as Canada, Alaska and Maine.

    • 7

      Add a caged section higher up or have the puffins' wings clipped. Including some trees for shade and roosting points will add to the comfort of your enclosure.