"A very common small gull of northern and offshore waters, named for its nasal 'ki-ti-waak' callnotes. Seldom comes to land south of its nesting range, but may be seen from shore on either coast, especially during storms. Often abundant on the northern islands where it nests. There the kittiwakes are seen on narrow cliff ledges, perched facing the wall, their tails sticking out over the edge."