Arctic Skua

Arctic Skua / Parasitic Jaeger (Stercorarius parasiticus)

Arctic Skua is a common species in Iceland. It is a migrating bird that stays at southern oceans during winter and nests in the arctic. During breeding season Arctic Skuas stay mostly inland where they feed on a various foods, such as insects, eggs and birds. They are also seen foraging at sea during breeding season, where they chase other birds and force them to drop their food. Arctic Skuas are superb flyers and often catch the food before it hits the sea.

 

Arctic Skuas are commonly seen foraging at Skjálfandi bay.

Length:

45 cm

Weight:

350-500 g

Wingspan:

110-500 cm

Population:

 5,000-10,000 pairs