Baccalieu Island is the largest protected seabird island in Newfoundland & Labrador.
During the breeding season (April 1 to October 30), access to the seabird nesting areas is restricted to scientific researchers and people with valid access permits. Other parts of the island may be visited at any time without a permit. (Access to view the seabirds can be done only by boat.) Boat landings at Ned Walsh's Cove and London Cove can be dangerous and should only be attempted by experienced boaters. The island is visible from shore, across Baccalieu Tickle, and from Red Head Cove. At the Bay de Verde Heritage House, interpretive exhibits explain the natural and cultural history of Baccalieu Island and the region.
More than three million pairs of Leach's Storm Petrel (the largest colony in the world) makes their nests at Baccalieu Island. It is a site of one of only six colonies of Northern Gannet and one of only three nesting sites for the Northern Fulmar.
The Atlantic Puffin as well as the Common Murre are found in abundance here. Baccalieu is also the most southerly limit for the Thick-billed Murre and Razorbill.
Along with these species can be found the Black Guillemot, the Black-Legged Kittywake, the Herring Gull and the Great Black-Backed Gull. Baccalieu Island also has one of the largest winter populations of Eider Ducks in Newfoundland.
