Bounty Islands Shag vs New Zealand King Shag

In short

The Bounty Islands Shag and the New Zealand King Shag are both large, black-and-white cormorants endemic to New Zealand, but they differ in habitat and subtle plumage details. The most reliable field mark is their location: Bounty Islands Shag is found exclusively on the remote Bounty Islands, while New Zealand King Shag inhabits the Marlborough Sounds. Observing their behavior and habitat can also aid in identification.

Identification tips

• Location: Bounty Islands Shag on Bounty Islands; New Zealand King Shag in Marlborough Sounds.
• Plumage: Look for subtle differences in wing patches, though this is not always reliable.
• Behavior and Size: Similar in both species, not useful for differentiation.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of large cormorants, with no significant size difference noted in the field.

Plumage

Both species have striking black-and-white plumage. The Bounty Islands Shag may have a slightly more pronounced white patch on the wings, but this can be subtle and is not always reliable.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical cormorant behavior, such as diving for fish and resting with wings spread. Behavior is not a reliable differentiator.

Habitat

Bounty Islands Shag is restricted to the Bounty Islands, while New Zealand King Shag is found in the Marlborough Sounds. Habitat is a key differentiator.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for either species and are not a reliable field mark.