ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Black-legged Kittiwake

 Black-legged Kittiwake

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Kittiwakes are regular visitors to Lake Erie, but very seldom do they linger in any one spot. November and December are the months to watch for them, and cold, blustery days with north winds are the best.
 

Black-legged Kittiwake 
Rissa tridactyla

At-a-Glance

• Incubation: 25 days

• Clutch Size: 1-3 eggs

• Typical Foods: small surface fish and invertebrates
Description
Virtually all kittiwakes recorded in Ohio have been first-year birds, which are distinctive with their prominent black wing markings and black collar. The black on the wingtips cuts straight across, as if dipped in ink. The bill is small, pale yellow, and unmarked.

Habitat and Habits
Kittiwakes are ordinarily pelagic (ocean-going), and are one of the world's most common gulls. They can be found on the open waters of Lake Erie, sometimes entering sheltered harbors to rest or feed with other gulls. They are very rarely on large inland lakes and rivers. Their name derives from one of the calls - kit-e-wake, kit-e-wake!

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Black-legged kittiwakes nest on cliffs in interspecific colonies, meaning they nest with different species. Both the male and female feed and brood the young.