Imperial Shag
Leucocarbo atriceps
Least ConcernAves · Suliformes · Phalacrocoracidae
About
The imperial shag or imperial cormorant is a black-and-white cormorant native to southern South America, islands of the Subantarctic, and the Antarctic Peninsula, primarily in rocky coastal regions, but locally also at large inland lakes. Some taxonomic authorities, including the International Ornithologists' Union, place it in the genus Leucocarbo, others in the genus Phalacrocorax. It is also known as the blue-eyed shag, blue-eyed cormorant and by many other names, and is one of a larger group of cormorants called blue-eyed shags. The taxonomy is complex, and several types are treated as either subspecies or separate species.
Fun Fact
Some taxonomic authorities, including the International Ornithologists' Union, place it in the genus Leucocarbo, others in the genus Phalacrocorax.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Native to southern South America, islands of the Subantarctic, and the Antarctic Peninsula, primarily in rocky coastal regions, but locally also at large inland lakes.
Diet
Diet of this species consists of small benthic fish, crustaceans, polychaetes, gastropods and octopuses.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance