Great Skua
NameGreat Skua
Common NameGreat Skua
Scientific NameStercorarius skua
FamilyStercorariidae
Wingspan (cm)132.5
Length (cm)54
Weight (g)1400
Plumage DetailsAdults are dark brown overall, with heavy rufous-brown streaking on the head, neck, and underparts, giving them a mottled appearance. A prominent white flash at the base of the primary feathers is visible, especially in flight. The bill and legs are dark.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a harsh, guttural 'skua-skua' or 'ha-ha-ha' call, often given during territorial displays or when disturbed. They also produce a variety of yelping and cackling sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, moorland, open ocean
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds primarily on islands and coastal areas of the North Atlantic, including Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Shetland, Orkney, and parts of Scotland and Norway. Winters mainly in the Atlantic Ocean, ranging south to the coasts of Africa and South America.
Identifying Featureslarge, robust build, dark brown mottled plumage, prominent white wing flashes (in flight), heavy, hooked bill, aggressive behavior
Description
The Great Skua is a large, robust seabird with a powerful build, often seen on northern moorlands during breeding season. It is known for its predatory and kleptoparasitic behavior, frequently chasing other seabirds to steal their catch. Outside of breeding, they spend their lives at sea.
