Great Skua
Image: miguelberkemeier (cc-by-nc)
NameGreat Skua
Common NameGreat Skua
Scientific NameStercorarius skua
FamilyStercorariidae
Wingspan (cm)132.5
Length (cm)54
Weight (g)1450
Plumage DetailsAdult Great Skuas have a dark, mottled brown plumage overall, often appearing streaked. A distinctive white flash is visible at the base of the primary feathers on the underwing, particularly prominent in flight. They possess a heavy, hooked bill and dark legs.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, guttural calls, often described as 'skua-skua' or 'ga-ga-ga'. When agitated or defending territory, they may emit a barking 'kek-kek-kek' sound.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, moorland, tundra, pelagic
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Great Skua breeds primarily in the North Atlantic, with major colonies on islands such as Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Shetland, Orkney, and parts of Scotland and Norway. Outside the breeding season, it is highly pelagic, migrating south to winter off the coasts of Europe, Africa, and occasionally as far as South America.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, robust build, Dark brown, mottled plumage, Prominent white wing flashes (visible in flight), Powerful, direct flight, Kleptoparasitic behavior, Heavy, hooked bill
Description
The Great Skua is a large, powerful seabird known for its robust build and aggressive nature. It exhibits a strong, direct flight and is often observed harassing other seabirds to steal their catch, a behavior known as kleptoparasitism. This species breeds on northern moorlands and spends the non-breeding season far out at sea.
