Kittiwake

Rissa tridactyla

Kittiwake

Kittiwake

Quick Facts

Classification

Scientific name:

Rissa tridactyla

Family:

Gulls and terns

Conservation status:

Red

Measurements

Length:

38cm to 40cm

Wingspan:

95cm to 110cm

Weight:

300g to 500g

About the Kittiwake

The kittiwake is a medium-sized member of the gull family. They have grey backs, white parts underneath and small yellow bill. Legs are black and short. Whilst in flight, the black wing tips don't show any white - this is unlike other gulls.

They are coastal birds, which can be found around the coasts around the UK in the breeding season and spend winter months out at sea in the Atlantic Ocean.

Kittiwake populations have been declining in some areas of the UK and this could be down to a shortage of sand eels.

What does a Kittiwake eat?

Their diets mainly consist of shrimps, fish and worms.

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Learn more about the Kittiwake

Other birds in the Gulls and terns family

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