The unfashionable suburbs

It's been three weeks since I first noticed kittiwakes nesting under the Tyne Bridge. I was a bit pressed for time today, so only managed this hasty snap - but it's clear to me now that the early birds secured the most favoured spots, on the stonework of the massive towers. Today's poor relations have to make do with the cold ironwork and a steep angle at that.

I also note that the seaward side is filled up before they will start on the landward side and.....they definitely seem to favour the Newcastle tower over the Gateshead one on the other bank. The latter's proximity to the Sage and the Hilton evidently doesn't impress kittiwakes.