Arctic Skua

(Difference between revisions)

 [[Image:Arcticskua.jpg]]
+'''Common Name:''' Arctic Skua or Parasitic Jaeger
+'''Scientific Name:''' Stercorarius parasiticus
+'''Size:''' 16.5 - 20 inches (41-50 cm)
+'''Habitat:''' North America, the Arctic and Northern Eurasia.  Migrant; wintering at sea in the tropics and southern oceans.
+'''Status:''' Not threatened.
+'''Diet:''' Lemmings and other rodents on the breeding grounds, but also robs gulls and terns of their catches. Like the larger skua species, it continues this piratical behaviour throughout the year, showing great agility as it harasses its victims.
+'''Nesting:''' It nests on dry tundra, higher fells and islands, laying up to four olive-brown eggs.
+'''Cool Facts:''' It is usually silent except for newing and wailing notes while on the breeding grounds. It is very agressive and will fly at the head of a human or fox approaching its nest. Although skuas cannot inflict serious damage, it is a painful experience.
+'''Included in Sea Birds'''

Revision as of 19:31, 5 February 2009