Skellig Michael classified as a Special Protection Area in 1986, when they were recognised for containing both an usually large variety and population of birds. It is known as an eyrie for Peregrine Falcon. Other birds of interest include Fulmar, Manx shearwater ("Puffinus puffinus"), Storm petrel, Gannet, Kittiwake, Guillemot and Atlantic Puffin. A herd of goats lived on the island until recently, and it supports a population of rabbits and house mice, both relatively recent introductions, probably introduced in the 19th century by lighthouse attendants. Grey Seal haul out on the island's ledges. The word "Skellig" derives from the old Irish word
Buller's shearwater blackish also; the two black areas do not meet at the hand however; the area between them is a rather light grey, under bright light it may appear almost white. With the bird facing upwards, the pattern gives the impression of a broken black "M", with light grey interspersing areas. The underside is bright white; on the head the upperside's grey extends town to eye height and the white cheeks may shine up conspicuously, as in the smaller shearwaters of "Puffinus sensu stricto". The rectrices are blackish and the tail is wedge-shaped; bill and iris are dark. Fledged juveniles already