Birnie Rocks

Birnie Rocks, located in Midlothian, is a small island situated in the Firth of Forth, off the east coast of Scotland. This rocky outcrop is part of a group of islands known as the Firth of Forth Islands Nature Reserve, which is managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.

Birnie Rocks is a haven for a variety of seabirds, making it an important breeding and nesting site. The island is particularly known for its large population of puffins. These charismatic birds with their strikingly colorful beaks can be seen in abundance during the summer months when they return to the island to breed. Other notable bird species that can be observed on Birnie Rocks include guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes.

The island itself is relatively small, measuring only about 300 meters in length and 100 meters in width. It is composed of rugged cliffs and steep slopes, providing ideal nesting grounds for the seabirds. Access to the island is restricted to protect the wildlife, and visitors are not allowed to set foot on the rocks.

Birnie Rocks can be admired from the mainland, with nearby vantage points such as Seafield Beach and Port Seton offering excellent views of the island and its bird population. The surrounding waters are also home to seals, which can sometimes be spotted basking on the rocks or swimming in the sea.

Overall, Birnie Rocks is a significant ecological site, providing a safe haven for numerous seabird species and offering a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty and diversity of Scotland's coastal ecosystems.