South Polar Skua

Gulosus aristotelis

The South Polar Skua, scientific name Gulosus aristotelis, is a seabird found in the Southern Hemisphere. It is a large, aggressive bird known for its piratical behavior, often stealing food from other seabirds. The South Polar Skua has a dark brown plumage with a white patch on its wings and a hooked bill. It is a skilled and agile flier, often seen gliding over the open ocean. These skuas breed on remote islands and coastal areas, and they are known for their territorial behavior during the breeding season. They primarily feed on fish, carrion, and other seabirds. The South Polar Skua plays a vital role in the marine ecosystem as a scavenger and predator.

Habitat: Coastal areas and remote islands