Ferry Mews 

As the pages of the Story of the Tyne Kittiwakes turned for another season,  a  sad chapter is beginning in North Shields, North Tyneside.  Where dozens nested on the Front of Ferry Mews; only a couple remained.  Fewer pairs also returned to nest in the guttering; with 3 pairs settling down on building next door. 

Where up to 23 pairs nested during the 2023 season, only 16 were present in 2024.  This reduction is likely due to a combination of the owner of the building adjusting the anti-bird netting and how Kittiwake colonies closer to the coast are more vulnerable to avian-flu as they come in closer contact with other species of seabirds.  

Kittiwakes nesting on Ferry Mews in North Shields, North Tyneside during 2024

Kittiwakes nesting on a building close to Ferry Mews & the Ferry Landing in North Shields, North Tyneside during 2024

Smiths Dock

No pairs returned to nest at Smiths Dock for the 2024 season.  This may be as a consequence of several seasonal tides which were much higher than normal; with a few instances where flood preventative measures were activated by the environment agency. 

The story of the Tyne Kittiwakes began in North Shields and it would be great to see
the local council and community come together to work towards a forever home 
where Tyne Kittiwakes can build their nests as they return every season.