Great Skua
Great Skua
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1 day ago
A large, powerful, and predatory seabird, the Great Skua is known for its robust build, aggressive nature, and kleptoparasitic feeding habits. They are impressive flyers, often seen harassing other seabirds for food.
Where to spot
Found in the North Atlantic Ocean, breeding on islands and coastal moorlands in northern Europe (e.g., Scotland, Iceland). They winter further south in the Atlantic.
How to spot
Look for its large size, dark brown plumage, broad wings with distinctive white flashes at the primary bases, and a powerful, direct flight. Observe its characteristic aggressive chasing of other seabirds to steal food.
When to spot
Best observed during their breeding season from late spring to summer on their nesting grounds. Otherwise, they are pelagic and can be seen from coastal headlands during migration or on offshore boat trips.
Where to spot
Found in the North Atlantic Ocean, breeding on islands and coastal moorlands in northern Europe (e.g., Scotland, Iceland). They winter further south in the Atlantic.
How to spot
Look for its large size, dark brown plumage, broad wings with distinctive white flashes at the primary bases, and a powerful, direct flight. Observe its characteristic aggressive chasing of other seabirds to steal food.
When to spot
Best observed during their breeding season from late spring to summer on their nesting grounds. Otherwise, they are pelagic and can be seen from coastal headlands during migration or on offshore boat trips.
Credits:
Dirk-Jan van Roest
Credits:
hans zwitzer
Credits:
Ulrich Latzenhofer
Great Skuas are notorious 'pirates' of the sea, often chasing other seabirds like gulls and gannets until they drop their catch, which the skua then promptly steals.
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