Habitat:
Coasts, beaches, islands, and marine areas of subarctic and arctic regions, especially in Northern Europe, Iceland, and the British Isles

Description:
The Great Skua is a large, powerful seabird, belonging to the Stercorariidae family. It measures about 50 to 60 cm in length, with a wingspan of 120 to 130 cm, and weighs between 500 and 1,000 g. Its plumage is primarily brown and gray, with white markings on the wings and a generally dark head. The Great Skua is a migratory bird, found mainly in the coastal regions of the North Atlantic, particularly in Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, and parts of Canada. It is especially known for its piratical behavior, stealing food from other seabirds, such as gulls or fishing birds, by chasing them and forcing them to abandon their catch. While territorial, it is also an excellent swimmer and diver, feeding mainly on fish and crustaceans. The Great Skua is vulnerable to the loss of its coastal habitat and human disturbances, including pollution and disruptions caused by tourism.

Recommended lens:
>=300 mm

Photography tips:
To photograph the great skua, use a telephoto lens to capture its flight or when resting on beaches. Soft light in the early morning or late afternoon is best for clear, natural images. Be discreet and keep a safe distance, especially during the breeding season or when it’s defending its territory. IUCN status: Least Concern. Avoid disturbance, particularly near nesting areas.