A skua is a seabird belonging to the family Stercorariidae. It is a larger bird characterized by its robust body, long wingspan, and strong beak. Skuas are known for their opportunistic feeding habits, often behaving as scavengers and pirates, stealing food from other birds. They are highly skilled at aerial pursuits, often chasing other birds to steal their catch.
Skua species can be found in various regions around the world, predominantly in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, as well as coastal areas. They exhibit different plumage variations, with some species having dark brown or blackish feathers, while others have a combination of white, brown, and gray markings.
These birds are known for their aggressive behavior, particularly during the breeding season, where they fiercely defend their nests from intruders. Skuas are also highly territorial and will readily engage in aerial battles with other birds, often dive-bombing them to drive them away.
In addition to being scavengers, skuas are also known to consume fish, squid, and smaller seabirds. They have a powerful and hooked beak, which assists them in tearing apart prey and feeding on carcasses.
Due to their adaptability and opportunistic feeding habits, skuas play an important role in maintaining marine ecosystems by cleaning up carrion and regulating population sizes of other seabirds.
