Brown Skua
NameBrown Skua
Common NameBrown Skua
Scientific NameStercorarius antarcticus
FamilyStercorariidae
Wingspan (cm)143
Length (cm)58
Weight (g)1650
Plumage DetailsAdults are uniformly dark brown, often with a slightly paler head and neck, and a pale flash at the base of the primary feathers (though not always visible). Juveniles and chicks are covered in pale brown down.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, guttural calls, often described as 'skua-skua' or 'gah-gah-gah', especially when agitated or defending territory.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds on sub-Antarctic islands and parts of the Antarctic Peninsula, dispersing widely across the southern oceans during the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Dark brown plumage, Robust body, Strong hooked bill, Aggressive behavior, Pale primary flash (often visible in flight)
Description
The Brown Skua is a large, robust seabird with dark brown plumage and a powerful, hooked bill. Known for its predatory and kleptoparasitic behavior, it often harasses other seabirds to steal their food.
