A MAN has written a book about a vulnerable species of gull that nests in the North-East in efforts to raise awareness.

Tyneside is home to the world's most inland colony of kittiwakes at the Newcastle Gateshead quayside, where the birds are thriving despite global decline.

Black-legged kittiwakes are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature red list as a vulnerable species.

Author John Miles hopes to help educate children and their parents about the birds through his new book, The Return of Kitty the Toon.

It is his second book about the region's colony, choosing to revisit the species after growing concerns about their future.

He said: "Kittiwakes are fascinating, I want to highlight animals in urban environments.

"People have gotten more interested in wildlife during lockdown but more should get involved and appreciate the birds in their area."

Author John Miles with his two grandchildren

Author John Miles with his two grandchildren

The first kittiwake book was published in 2012, but climate change, rising sea levels and the use of bird deterrents on nesting spots drove left Mr Miles wanting to do more.

He has also written books about dungbeetles, foxes and swifts.

Mr Miles said: "They are as much for adults as children, the idea is that parents will read them to their children and everyone learns."

Kittiwakes travel 12 miles down the Tyne to the sea to eat each day during nesting season before travelling to the Atlantic for winter.

The book follows this story and explores what the future of kittiwakes on the Tyne could look like.

It is illustrated by North-East artist Sarah Farooqi and shows the birds in iconic settings on the Baltic art gallery and the Sage.

Ms Farooqi said: "I've always enjoyed seeing and hearing the Kittiwakes nesting on the Tyne Bridge. However, I didn't know much about them until John contacted me.

"He explained how they migrate each summer across the Atlantic and Arctic oceans to form the furthest inland colony anywhere in the world. He also described the dangers they face from the various attempts to control their nest sites due to the inevitable noise and mess that all wild creatures create.
 

The Northern Echo: Kittiwakes nesting under the Tyne Bridge. Picture: SARAH FAROOQIKittiwakes nesting under the Tyne Bridge. Picture: SARAH FAROOQI

"I was very distressed when I saw photos of young kittiwakes trapped and dying in the anti-bird netting which is being used.

"Many people might think that netting is a humane deterrent but the consequences are not humane at all."I was really keen to illustrate this book which is aimed at children and their parents. I wanted to help John show how precious these birds are and how important it is to understand the dangers they face." 

Mr Miles is also working with urban expedition group Wild Intrigue, which runs an event called kittiwakes and doughnuts in efforts to educate people about their surroundings.

Anyone wishing to find out more should visit https://www.chickbooks.co.uk/.