AN INJURED puffin was found on Prestwick beach recently – but it failed to survive the trip to a rescue centre.

The stricken bird was discovered by a member of the public, and was attended to by staff from South Ayrshire Council’s ranger service, who tried to take it to Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Centre in Beith.

However, the puffin died during the journey.

A South Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “Earlier this week, a struggling puffin was found on Prestwick beach by a member of the public.

“The rangers were alerted and tried to take it to Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue but unfortunately it died on the way there.

“A bit of a sad story but puffins are such beautiful creatures, we couldn’t prevent sharing a few pics with you all.

“Puffins spend most of their winter at sea and so are very rarely seen at this time of the year.

“This one has its winter plumage on, as you would expect: a darker head and a slightly less colourful bill – although still bright orange. They are a red listed species and so such a treat to see.”