Arctic skua
Scientific name: Stercorarius parasiticus
A fierce pirate of the sea, the Arctic skua is renowned for stealing fish from other seabirds and dive-bombing anyone that comes near its nests. It breeds in the far north of Scotland and on the Scottish Isles.
Species information
Statistics
Length: 44-46cmWingspan: 110-125cm
Weight: 330-570g
Average lifespan: Up to 25 years
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Red under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021). Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework.