The Pitt Island Shag is a rare and endangered cormorant endemic to the Chatham Islands of New Zealand. It is a medium-sized, dark-plumaged shag, closely related to other New Zealand shags.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Chatham Islands, New Zealand, breeding on coastal cliffs and islets. Forages in the nearshore marine environment around the islands.
How to spot
Observation requires a visit to the Chatham Islands. Look for its dark, glossy plumage. Distinguishing it from other similar New Zealand shags often requires careful attention to subtle morphological differences and confirmed geographic location.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round within its very restricted range. Breeding generally occurs during the austral spring and summer.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Chatham Islands, New Zealand, breeding on coastal cliffs and islets. Forages in the nearshore marine environment around the islands.
How to spot
Observation requires a visit to the Chatham Islands. Look for its dark, glossy plumage. Distinguishing it from other similar New Zealand shags often requires careful attention to subtle morphological differences and confirmed geographic location.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round within its very restricted range. Breeding generally occurs during the austral spring and summer.
This species has a very restricted breeding range, being found only on a few small islands within the Chatham Islands archipelago, making it particularly vulnerable.
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