Spotted Shag
NameSpotted Shag
Common NameSpotted Shag
Scientific NamePhalacrocorax punctatus
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)69
Weight (g)950
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark grey-brown upperparts with a white belly and a prominent white stripe running from above the eye down the side of the neck. During breeding season, they develop a distinctive double crest on the head and small black spots on the back. The facial skin around the eye and bill base is bright green.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a quiet species, but they produce low grunts and guttural calls, particularly when at their nesting colonies.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Zealand, found along the coasts of the North and South Islands, and Stewart Island.
Identifying Featuresdouble crest, white stripe on neck, bright green facial skin, dark upperparts, white underparts, long slender bill
Description
The Spotted Shag is a medium-sized marine cormorant endemic to New Zealand, characterized by its distinctive double crest and white stripe on the neck. These agile birds are expert divers, primarily feeding on small fish in coastal waters.
