Puffin, Farne Islands

Puffins are often said to "walk on water," but the truth is even more fascinating. When these charismatic seabirds take off from the sea, they must build up speed by rapidly flapping their wings and pattering their feet across the water's surface. For a few seconds, it appears as though they are running on top of the water, creating a trail of splashes behind them. This unusual behaviour is necessary because puffins have relatively short wings designed for diving underwater rather than effortless flight, so they need a longer take-off run than many other seabirds.

Once airborne, puffins become remarkably agile, but getting there requires determination and energy. Their webbed feet act like tiny paddles, pushing against the water while their wings beat furiously to generate lift. This comical dash across the waves has earned them a reputation for "walking on water," delighting birdwatchers lucky enough to witness the spectacle. Far from a miracle, it is a brilliant adaptation that allows puffins to thrive both beneath the waves and high above the rugged coastal cliffs they call home.