East Suffolk Council
Kittiwakes
Kittiwakes are small gulls which nest in Lowestoft from March to September. Lowestoft’s kittiwakes feed in the arctic through the rest of the year. Lowestoft is one of the places they rely on to breed and plays a nationally important role in supporting the species.
Kittiwakes usually nest on steep sea cliffs, but due to coastal erosion and other environmental factors, they have adapted to nest on buildings. In Lowestoft, they build their nests on tall structures, preferring narrow ledges which emulate cliff faces. These urban sites provide the access to the north sea they need to feed during the breeding season.
Kittiwakes return to the same nest on the same ledge every year. If disturbed or blocked, they try to nest as close as possible to their previous site. This strong loyalty makes it difficult to move them once a colony is established.
Kittiwakes feed on small fish and other food from the sea. They do not scavenge from bins or steal food. Their call, which is said to sound like they’re saying: “kitti-waake!” is one of their most distinctive features, alongside their black legs and small beak.
Although nesting kittiwakes do cause noise and mess, they are a protected species and an important part of Lowestoft’s coastal heritage.
The Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership
The Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership is made up of seven organisations:
- East Suffolk Council
- Lowestoft Town Council
- Lowestoft Vision (Lowestoft’s Business Improvement District)
- The RSPB
- Suffolk Wildlife Trust
- The Marina Theatre
- South Pier Ltd
The partnership is chaired by Jess Asato, Member of Parliament for Lowestoft.
As a group and through their own work, the Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership’s activities include:
- Sharing accurate, balanced information with the public
- Helping residents and businesses manage the presence of kittiwakes effectively and legally
- Investigating alternative nesting options to help both the town and the kittiwakes
- Arranging cleaning in public areas which are host to kittiwakes
Legal Considerations
Kittiwakes are a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Disturbing them or interfering with their nests can be an offence.
When installing deterrents, carrying out building works, or taking any action that might disturb kittiwakes, you must follow official guidance:
Contact Information
If you have concerns about nesting kittiwakes or would like to know more, you can contact the following organisations:
Wildlife advice and support
RSPB
Website: www.rspb.org.uk
Email: wildlife@rspb.org.uk
Phone: 01767 693690
Report a Wildlife Crime
Suffolk Police
Online wildlife crime reporting service
For emergencies, call 999.
RSPB Investigations Team
Email: crime@rspb.org.uk
Phone: 01767 693690
Contact the Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership
Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership Project Officer
Email: amy.duran@eastsuffolk.gov.uk
(Please note that the Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership do not rescue trapped or injured birds).