The Red-legged Kittiwake is a small gull restricted almost entirely to the Bering Sea, breeding only on the Pribilof and Commander Islands. The coral-red legs (vs. black-yellow legs in the Black-legged Kittiwake) are the key field mark. Its population has declined significantly and is a conservation concern. It is pelagic outside the breeding season.
Best time to see a Red-legged Kittiwake
The best time to see a Red-legged Kittiwake is May–July, when about 81% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 126 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Red-legged Kittiwake? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Red-legged Kittiwake sightings near you
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