THE Isle of May is once again open to visitors, although numbers are restricted due to social distancing requirements on boats to the nature reserve.

Officially opened last Monday, the island –managed by nature agency NatureScot – will welcome wildlife lovers arriving via the main operators, including North Berwick’s Scottish Seabird Centre RIB.

David Steel, NatureScot manager, said: “We will be opening the nature reserve safely to the public so people can come see the thousands of nesting seabirds.

“We encourage people to visit to experience the wild beauty of this east coast island, but also to do so safely by staying on designated paths.”

The reserve is home to more than 80,000 pairs of birds, including more than 40,000 puffins, and also one of the largest grey seal colonies in the UK. Access to the island is free, though there are boat charges to get there.