Bird species profile
Brown Skua
Stercorarius antarcticus
- Order
- Charadriiformes
- Family
- Stercorariidae
About the species
The Brown Skua is a large, robust seabird with dark brown plumage and a powerful build. Found along the coasts and islands of southern South America and Antarctica, it is notorious for its boldness and intelligence. Skuas are opportunistic feeders, often seen harassing other birds to steal their catches or scavenging carrion. During the breeding season, they nest on remote beaches or tundra, displaying remarkable tenacity in defending their territory. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in harsh, windswept environments, making them a prominent feature of the Patagonian and sub-Antarctic avifauna.
Habitat
Coastal regions, offshore islands, and tundra near the sea in southern South America and Antarctica.
Foraging
Feeds by hunting, scavenging, and kleptoparasitism, often stealing food from other seabirds or preying on eggs and chicks.
