The Black-legged Kittiwake is a cliff-nesting gull of the North Atlantic and Pacific that spends most of its life on the open ocean, coming to land only to breed. Its name comes from its 'kitt-i-WAKE' call. It is the most abundant gull in the world. Colonies nest on sheer cliff faces where its specialized nesting behavior and webbed feet grip narrow ledges.
Best time to see a Black-legged Kittiwake
The best time to see a Black-legged Kittiwake is May–September, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 3,208 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Black-legged Kittiwake? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Black-legged Kittiwake sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Black-legged Kittiwake?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.