FOOTAGE taken by specially-installed cameras will again allow the public to watch an internationally-important colony of Kittiwakes during the breeding season.

Kittiwake Cams have for several years monitored the birds, which have returned inland to nest having spent the winter months out at sea.

The River Tyne is home to an important breeding population of Kittiwakes, including a large number at NewcastleGateshead Quayside. They nest on buildings including the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art on the south bank of the Tyne and the Tyne Bridge.

The Kittiwakes breed alongside the Tyne on man-made structures, including old buildings, but when these are redeveloped or knocked down their nests are often destroyed.

Newcastle is unusual amongst world cities in having a seabird colony in its centre and the cameras are designed to give people a deeper understanding of the birds’ needs.

The cameras are supported by Durham Wildlife Trust and the Baltic and Kirsty Pollard, Education Officer from the Trust, said: “People can follow the progress of the colony throughout the breeding season and see some wonderfully endearing behaviours as the parent kittiwakes lay eggs and raise their young.

“The camera provides an opportunity to observe the birds at such a close range that it builds a greater appreciation of their lifecycle and conservation needs. With so many threats to our local wildlife we are keen to ensure that our Tyne kittiwakes continue to thrive in our city long into the future."

You can see the footage at https://carnyxlive.co.uk/jwplayer/streams/kittiwake720ssl.html Baltic Kittiwakes