Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

Up to TWO-hundred and one pairs of Kittiwakes nest on the
» Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead. This is less than originally nested before it was converted from the old Flour Mill building to the present-day art gallery. It remains however the fourth largest colony of breeding Kittiwakes along the River Tyne.  Prior to the conversion, an alternative nesting site was designed and constructed; the » Saltmeadows  Tower.  Efforts were actioned to encourage the Kittiwakes to nest on this artificial tower instead.
Some of the Tyne Kittiwakes however really wanted to continue nesting on the old Flour Mill building and gradually dozens have returned and continued to nest on what in the present day has evolved into a gallery for contemporary art.  As the 2024 seasoned dawned nesting birds were disturbed by a huge event from the Newcastle side of the River Tyne, which involved light shows and noise projected at the Baltic.  These were supported by the Baltic and permission was given by Newcastle City Council.  Such events at a time where eggs are hatching and chicks are surfacing for the very first time are not a welcome sight for this large breeding colony; especially at this time where seabird populations are declining rapidly.  Kittiwakes upon the Tyne are reviewing events during 2024 and are exploring options as to how efforts can be enhanced to help better protect the Tyne Kittiwakes during their breeding season.  

 

Viewing Platform

A viewing platform has been provided within the Baltic Gallery (although this was closed a lot during the 2024 breeding season).  This can be accessed by using their lifts which transport users to and from the upper reaches of the building.  Visitors can enjoy close up views of the Kittiwakes; which is especially popular with families and local schools.  
 

Kittiwakes nesting on the Baltic 
by Ashley Bayston © 2023

Kittiwake Cam

To complement the viewing platform, in association with the
» Durham Wildlife Trust there is also a » Kittiwake Cam where everyone can watch the nesting Kittiwakes from the comfort of their own homes. Many find the sounds of nature relaxing. This is also an opportunity to study Kittiwakes up close. Kittiwakes usually nest on sea cliffs or islands on the coast or out at sea. So such breeding sites are not often easily accessible.
 

 

 

Kittiwakes on the Baltic
by Steven Ward

 

 

 

Kittiwakes nesting on the Baltic by Imogen 

 

Kittiwakes flying past the Baltic Gallery by Ashley Bayston © 2023