Chasing Puffins and Coastal Magic — A Dream Fulfilled on Bird Island

Bird Island has lived in my imagination for years — a rugged sliver of rock off the Nova Scotia coast, home to the charismatic Atlantic puffin. So when I finally stepped onto the boat and felt the salty wind hit my face, I knew this was more than just another day of photography. This was a dream coming to life.

The skies were heavy with overcast clouds, but the moody light only added to the magic. Against the gray horizon, the puffins popped with their bright beaks and comical flight patterns — and somehow, even through the mist, I managed to capture a few moments I’ll hold close for years to come.

As if that wasn’t enough, we spotted bald eagles — perched regally in trees, soaring overhead, and even clinging to the rocky cliffs. Seals bobbed curiously in the surf, and the sea was alive with murres, razorbills, and gulls dancing on the wind.

It was wild. It was humbling. And it reminded me why I chase moments like these with a camera in hand.

Canada really is a paradise for nature lovers.