Birds of South Marble: Black-legged Kittiwake

Black-legged kittiwakes nest on steep rocky cliffs.

NPS Photo

Black-legged Kittiwake, Rissa Tridactyla

 
You'll know these smaller gulls by their black legs, yellow bill, and all-black wing tips that look like they have been dipped in black ink. They nest in colonies on narrow rock ledges on SMI, as well as other places in the bay; laying 1 -3 eggs. Immature kittiwakes have distinctive "M-shaped" black markings on their wings, a black collar behind their heads and black bills. Their name comes from their call, a repeated, "Kitti-wake, kitti-wake, kitti-wake!"
 

Measurements

Wingspan	Length	Weight
36"	17"	14 oz/400 g

Know before you go: South Marble Island is closed to camping and foot traffic year-round. All vessels (including kayaks) must remain further than 50 yards from the southern half of South Marble Island and remain further than 100 yards from nesting seabird colonies. Binoculars are advised.