Puffins - great gift ideas for puffin lovers

Puffins are one of Britain's best loved and most easily recognisable birds with their comical look. According to the RSPB, they are best spotted at breeding colonies at venues such as the RSPB's Bempton Cliffs (N Yorks) and South Stack (Anglesey) reserves; the Farne Islands and Coquet Island (Northumberland); the Isle of May (off the Fife coast); and the Shetland and Orkney Islands.

Like so many animals, puffins are not having an easy time of it and they find themselves on the Red List.

	For those who want to make a difference Adopt a puffin There are a number of charities you can adopt a puffin from as a gift, including the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales. For £25, you'll help the Trust's work on Skomer and Skokholm Islands. Click here for information on adoption packs. You can also adopt a Burhou Puffin from the Channel Island of Alderney and the Alderney Wildlife Trust - it's the only Wildlife Trust in the Channel Islands.
	*Or enjoy delightful pictures of puffins* Nothin' but Puffins This hard-back book consists of 64 pictures of puffins at their most amusing, together with witty commentary. £8.95 from Foyles
	*Add extra colour to the home with a puffin* Puffin Doorstep This gorgeous puffin has a bright yellow hat and wellies and so is ready for all weathers! He'll bring cheer to every home. He's 27.5 cm tall. You can fly to the RSPB's Online Shop and buy him there for £26.99
	Something to enjoy a warm drink from Seashore puffin parade mug The RSPB has a couple of pretty puffin mugs and there's currently an offer on them, too. (You can buy 2 for £15 or buy one for £8.50.) mugs are made in the UK from delicate, bone china. All are gift boxed, and are dishwasher and microwave safe. Go to the RSPB Online Shop to take a peek! Alternatively, you could take a peek at Emma Bridgewater's "Birds" mugs which feature a Seabirds variety - there are different sizes to choose from. The Seabirds mug has a range of sea birds on it, including of course the puffin! Fly away to Emma Bridgewater's site here
	The Secret Lives of Puffins The award-winning wildlife photographer Mark Sisson has photographed puffins over several years, and this book covers the birds' life cycle, behaviour, habitats and the current and future challenges they face, with facts and anecdotes as well. As well as images to capsulate the puffins' charm, there's text written by leading wildlife writer Dominic Couzens. £20 from Foyles.
	*What about something cuddly for younger nature lovers or people who love to have something special to enjoy in their home?* Large puffin soft plush toy This gorgeous toy is nearly lifesize. It comes with a little hanging tag with everything you need to know about this popular sea bird. He's 22cm high. Never mind the children - I think this puffin would make a lovely gift to give cheer to a home! Waddle away to the RSPB's Online Shop to buy him for £11.99
	Here's an activity to do from home - cross stitch a puffin! Puffin - Cross Stitch Kit from Amazon For those who enjoy doing cross stitch and who are also puffin and nature lovers, here's a great combination - a Puffin Cross Stitch Kit. Or, you could do the creating bit for the puffin lover in your life and give your finished version to them! For £12.84 from Amazon.