Stewart Island Shag
NameStewart Island Shag
Common NameStewart Island Shag
Scientific NameLeucocarbo chalconotus
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)105
Length (cm)67.5
Weight (g)2350
Plumage DetailsThis species exhibits two distinct color morphs. The pied morph, shown in the image, has glossy black upperparts, head, and neck, contrasting with pure white underparts. The bronze morph is entirely dark bronze-green. Both morphs feature a prominent orange-red facial wattle during the breeding season, a pale bill, and pink feet.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet birds, but they may emit grunts, growls, and hisses, particularly when at breeding colonies.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the coastal waters around Stewart Island and the Foveaux Strait, extending to the Otago and Southland coasts of the South Island, New Zealand.
Identifying Featurespied or bronze plumage morphs, orange-red facial wattle (breeding), pale bill, pink feet, endemic to southern New Zealand coasts
Description
The Stewart Island Shag is a medium-sized marine bird endemic to New Zealand, known for its striking black and white plumage (pied morph) or entirely bronze plumage (bronze morph). These expert divers feed on fish and marine invertebrates in coastal waters, often resting and nesting on rocky outcrops and islands.
