Skuas · Shorebirds
Parasitic Jaeger
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Stercorarius parasiticus
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Voice
Alarm
Doug Hynes
How to recognize it
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Small skua, stockier and shorter-winged than long-tailed jaeger
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Dark cap; pale head sides, white breast, warm yellowish neck sides
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White wing flash on dark wings; breeding adult with narrow central tail projection
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Nasal mewing call, sharp hoarse "kaow"
About the species
Parasitic Jaeger has a lean, purposeful look, with long wings and a pointed tail that gives it a sharp, restless outline. Even with different colour forms, it always feels like a fast, sea-going hunter.
It flies with a falcon-like ease and often makes itself known by a harsh, nasal, mewing voice. Around nesting sites it can sound especially insistent and edgy.
It breeds in the far north of Eurasia and North America, then moves to ocean waters and warmer coasts for winter. Its meals often come from snatching food from other seabirds, though it also takes small animals and, at some times of year, berries.
Where to find
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Along quays, piers, and the edges of large open water — especially where gulls gather, the Parasitic Jaeger is often seen swooping in with sharp turns and a nasal cry.
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On windy canal banks and exposed bays — look for fast, falcon-like flight just above the water, then sudden twists after terns.
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At river mouths, broad reservoirs, and fish stalls near the waterfront — it may settle on a stone or float for a moment before launching into another chase.
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In spring and autumn over sea promenades and large lakes — low circles above tern flocks and a loud, mewing call often give it away.
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Stercorarius parasiticus Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Parasitic jaeger Encyclopedia article