Powerful dark brown seabird, resembles a dark, heavily built immature gull. Note eye-catching white flashes in the primaries when in flight. Adults have distinct pale mottling on the upperparts, which serves to separate them from adults of the very similar South Polar Skua.

Aug 31, 2019 · This young Pomarine Skua really catches the eye with its heavy, ponderous structure comprising a large rotund body, large heavy head and neck, stout bill and short legs. The head and bill structure are curiously reminiscent of Glaucous Gull, an impression heightened by the characteristic 'two-tone' bill with its pale base and well-defined dark tip.

The skuas / ˈskjuːə / are a group of predatory seabirds with seven species forming the genus Stercorarius, the only genus in the family Stercorariidae. The three smaller skuas, the Arctic skua, the long-tailed skua, and the pomarine skua, are called jaegers in North American English.

Mar 24, 2023 · All skuas share similar physical traits including dark grey/brown feathers along with white patches on wings and tail; long pointed bills; short legs; strong feet adapted for swimming; and typically black eyes although some species may exhibit yellow eyes or eye rings.

How can I tell the difference between the great skua and arctic skua? Great skuas are far larger, heavier and bulkier than arctic skuas plus arctic skuas have a white stripe above each eye.

Arctic skuas have two pointed central tail feathers that protrude beyond their main tail. They also have broad white flashes on the underside of their wings. While on the subject of wings, arctic skua wings are more elegant and not as wide as those of the pomarine skua.

The Great Skua, a majestic seabird inhabiting remote coastal regions, is renowned for its stunning presence and remarkable timidity. Despite its imposing appearance, with a wingspan that commands the sky, this avian creature transforms into a picture of nervous caution when it comes to protecting its nest.

The Great Skua is a pirate of the seas which will steal a free meal from birds as large as Gannets. It also preys on smaller birds such as Puffins. Great Skuas show little fear of humans – anybody getting close to the nest will be repeatedly dive-bombed by the angry adult.

Great Skuas, with their scientific name Stercorarius skua, are formidable seabirds, roughly the size of a herring gull. They have a robust build and sport a predominantly dark plumage with striking white wing flashes visible in flight.

The great skua, also known as the Stercorarius skua, is a large seabird that belongs to the family of birds called skuas. These birds are known for their aggressive behavior and predatory nature towards other birds. The great skua can be found in various parts of the world such as Iceland, Greenland, Canada, and Norway.