Petition Update No. 13: Tuesday, 27 April 2021.

A neighbouring building has denied permission for kittiwake nesting [ledges] at their property. This location was the only option remaining for placement of nesting ledges close to North Shields ferry landing. I had discussed plans for these ledges with an architect and a fisherman and met with each of them on site to plan installation with the use of a fishing boat. Permissions were being sought from various authorities. So this option is no longer available.

An alternative had been to place a nesting structure on a remaining jetty when the ferry landing moves in two years time. I contacted the jetty and path landowner with a proposed rough design of a nesting structure, but he confirmed the complete ferry landing and jetty will be demolished once its position moves.

I can think of no further current options at North Shields riverside for placement of kittiwake nesting ledges, but shall carefully review the riverside once again.

The North Shields Kittiwakes remain interested in their December-netted nesting ledge on Ferry Mews and continue to attempt to land there, but will be unable to build any nests on it. North Tyneside Council has made their position clear that they cannot ask the landlord to remove the netting since it was installed legally outside of the breeding season.

It is starting to look bleak for placement of new nesting ledges for our North Shields Kittiwakes. I hope they will be able to consider a move elsewhere and not become entangled in the netting with their persistent landing attempts.

With much frustration from Daniel and the Kittiwakes of North Shields

(Photo: 22 March 2021, Ferry Mews with kittiwake-deterrent netting)