The Kittiwalkers
Surveying an endangered species in Tromsø city center – Norway
The Goal: To encourage coexistence with the endangered Kittiwake [Rissa] in Tromsø, in Norway.
» The Kittiwalkers are a grassroots initiative led by the nonprofit » Rissa Citizen Science and powered by volunteers who believe that peaceful coexistence with kittiwakes in Tromsø is both necessary and achievable. Acting as citizen scientists, sentinels, and whistleblowers, the Kittiwalkers inform property owners, help prevent the illegal destruction of nests, and report violations to the authorities.
They respond to emergencies, stepping in or calling for help when birds are trapped in nets or injured by deterrents, and rescuing chicks that have fallen from their nests. The Kittiwalkers work closely with scientists, the municipality of Tromsø, architects, and artists, all committed to finding practical and creative solutions for living alongside one of Norway’s most endangered seabirds.
To learn more about the amazing work of RISSA in Norway and to watch their short film please visit:
» Rissa Citizen Science – Kittiwakes
Hundreds of Kittiwake nests
destroyed in Tromsø city center
66% of all the nests monitored by the Kittiwalkers in Tromsø city center in Norway have been lost. This is 211 nests. Outside their monitoring area, more nests have been destroyed (Kittiwake hotels dismantled; building torn down). In total, 582 nests have been lost since the last breeding season.
An article about this has been published.
In the gallery below you can view a selection of photos from Tromsø in Norway
from Rissa Citizen Science, Kate Searle and Bo Aide.
