Order: Charadriiformes
Family: Stercorariidae
The Chilean Skua is a robust, powerful seabird native to the southern coasts of South America, particularly Patagonia. With a bulky body, broad wings, and a distinctive cinnamon-brown plumage, it stands out among other skuas. This species is notorious for its kleptoparasitic habits, frequently chasing and harrying gulls, terns, and even penguins to force them to drop or regurgitate their catch. Outside the breeding season, Chilean Skuas are highly mobile, often seen patrolling coastal waters and offshore islands. During nesting, they form loose colonies on open ground, fiercely defending their territory from intruders, including humans. Their loud, harsh calls and aggressive aerial displays are characteristic sights and sounds along Patagonian shores. Adaptable and opportunistic, the Chilean Skua plays a significant role in the coastal ecosystem, both as a predator and a scavenger.
Habitat
Breeds on open coastal plains, islands, and beaches of southern Chile and Argentina; forages along coasts and at sea.
Foraging
Feeds by hunting, scavenging, and stealing food from other seabirds, often pursuing them in flight.
