Imperial Shag
NameImperial Shag
Common NameImperial Shag
Scientific NameLeucocarbo atriceps
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)117
Length (cm)72
Weight (g)2650
Plumage DetailsGlossy black upperparts, head, and neck, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts. Features a prominent bright blue eye-ring, orange or yellow caruncles (fleshy nodules) on the face, and a distinctive black crest during the breeding season. A white patch is typically visible on the back or flanks.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet away from breeding colonies. At colonies, vocalizations include guttural grunts, croaks, and hisses, particularly during courtship and territorial interactions.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds along the coasts of southern South America (Chile, Argentina), the Falkland Islands, and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Identifying Featuresblack and white plumage, bright blue eye-ring, orange facial caruncles, black crest (breeding season), white flank patch, hooked bill
Description
The Imperial Shag is a striking black and white marine bird found in cold coastal waters. It is an expert diver, propelling itself underwater with its feet to catch fish and marine invertebrates.
