Kittiwake

A petite oceanic gull features adults with jet-black wingtips resembling ink-dipped edges. Their flight showcases transparent feathers, a wholly yellow bill, and black legs. Nonbreeding individuals display a dark ear patch and smoky gray neck markings. Juveniles exhibit distinctive patterns including a black collar and wing “M” shapes. Their flight is agile and buoyant, often soaring in windy conditions. Nesting predominantly at high latitudes across the Northern Hemisphere, they form extensive colonies on water-facing cliffs and structures. During winter, they roam the open ocean, occasionally spotted from shore and rarely inland. These gulls congregate in groups for migration and winter seasons, especially in areas rich with food.