MACHIAS (pronounced Ma-Chi-Us) SEAL ISLAND is a designated bird sanctuary because it hosts the major regional breeding colony of Atlantic Puffins and Razorbills, as well as lesser populations of Common Eiders, Leach's Storm Petrels, Common (Thin-Billed) Murres, Savannah Sparrows and Spotted Sandpipers.

Until very recently, it also hosted the largest regional colony of Arctic and Common Terns. Unproven but suspected food shortages and other envinronmental stresses have caused complete reproduction failure since 2005. Future successful Tern nesting on MSI unlikely.

Because of the island's location and because historically it has been open to visitors, a limited number of tourists are permitted onto the island each day, for short periods, to view the colonial birds.

This gallery is a composite of several visits that shows what a visitor may expect. However, every day is unique and the number of birds present at any moment is effected by weather, food supply, point in their breeding cycle, predators, time of day and countless other factors, including visitor behavior. Visitors can expect to have good, close-up viewing of the Puffins and usually the other alcids as well.

Landings on the island may be shortened or prevented by adverse surf conditions and some days are cold and/or wet. All days are 10 to 15 degrees F cooler on the water than at the tour's departure point. Extra clothing is essential. Dress warm and dress dry.

There are currently two tour operators taking visitors to MSI.
Schedules and other specific information may be obtained directly from them through the following links.

BOLD COAST CHARTER COMPANY, CUTLER, MAINE.
E-Mail = info@boldcoast.com
Web site = http://www.boldcoast.com/

SEA WATCH TOURS, GRAND MANAN, NEW BRUNSWICK.
E-Mail = seawatch@nbnet.nb.ca
Web site = http://seawatchtours.com/