Column: A Cool Bird Adventure on a Hot Day in Maine

BOOTHBAY REGISTER • July 22, 2026

There are few better places to be on a torridly hot summer day than the cool ocean waters off the Maine coast. That’s where we found ourselves a few weeks ago during one of those near record-breaking hot days. We were on the upper deck of the Hardy Boat out of New Harbor for the annual Natural Resources Council (NRCM) of Maine puffin trip to Eastern Egg Rock. Long-time friend  Steve Kress (the “prince of puffins”) and his wife Elissa were onboard, Steve providing his colorful narrative describing his story about his half-century long project restoring puffins to Eastern Egg Rock. It was our pleasure to assist Steve in pointing out and identifying the many bird species we saw. Justin Strasberger, the new head of NRCM was there, too, talking with members, showcasing his boundless energy and enthusiasm for protecting Maine’s environment. ~ Jeff and Allison Wells