Vattenfall and ScottishPower Renewables have just completed construction of a kittiwake ‘hotel’ (pictured) with new nesting structures in the Port of Lowestoft, for around 430 pairs of black-legged kittiwakes
Global kittiwake population has been estimated to have fallen by around 40% since the 1970s, so the kittiwake hotels are vital to protect the species
The Lowestoft Kittiwake Partnership is also being awarded a £50,000 a year grant by Vattenfall to help local businesses and residents by supporting cleaning and other measures to help people and kittiwakes coexist in the town
A research programme was undertaken and an advisory group – which included representatives from Natural England, RSPB, East Suffolk Council and the Marine Management Organisation – was convened to improve success.
Based on the expert advice, the nesting structure has been designed in a way that replicates the best conditions for nesting and factors in conditions such as aspect, the amount of sunshine and shelter, and the size of the nesting shelves within.
Measures have also been taken to protect the nesting kittiwakes from predators – such as predator-proof fencing at the bottom to protect against mammals like foxes and an overhanging roof to protect against aerial predators.
While kittiwakes are known to be tolerant of human activity, the artificial nests are sited well away from the town and active port at the outer harbour to minimise interaction with human activity and property.
The nesting structure has been built on Associated British Ports, Port of Lowestoft land the ‘hotel’ was constructed by J.Murphy & Sons.
This development will help to compensate for the potential impacts on breeding black-legged kittiwakes in North Yorkshire by ensuring they have a safe nesting area, Vattenfall said.
Project director of Vattenfall’s Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone Rob Anderson said: “We’re really pleased that we’ve been able to play our part in protecting seabirds and making sure that Vattenfall’s Norfolk Offshore Wind Zone supports local wildlife.
“The east of England is famous for its seabirds so it’s great we’ve been able to look after them for generations to come.
“The funding for the Kittiwake Partnership will really help Lowestoft residents and businesses, who will be able to access support and advice on how to safely manage the impact of kittiwakes in the town.
“This is all part of our long-term commitment to the area as we build one of the world’s largest wind farms.”