Chilean Skua

The Chilean Skua (Stercorarius chilensis) is a large predatory seabird, which breeds in Argentina and Chile, but ranges as far north as Brazil and Peru when not breeding. A relatively distinctive skua, it has a dark cap that contrasts with its cinnamon throat and lower face. Hybrids with the Brown Skua are known from southern Argentina.

While nowhere near the size of birds such as the Wandering Albatross, the Chilean Skua makes up for it in sheer aggression towards other birds. Chilean Skuas have been known to fly in large groups (dubbed 'wolfpacks' by a Scottish whaler who observed the birds in action) and hunt other seabirds. They also eat offal, rodents and carrion.

References

• Database entry includes justification for why this species is of least concern

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