Long-tailed Skua vs Great Skua

In short

The Long-tailed Skua (Stercorarius longicaudus) and Great Skua (Stercorarius skua) are both members of the skua family but differ significantly in size and behavior. The Long-tailed Skua is a smaller, more agile bird often found in the Arctic tundra, while the Great Skua is larger and more robust, typically seen in coastal areas.

Identification tips

1. Size and Shape: Look for the smaller, more slender Long-tailed Skua with long central tail feathers versus the larger, bulkier Great Skua. 2. Plumage: Note the streamlined appearance of the Long-tailed Skua compared to the uniform brown of the Great Skua. 3. Behavior: Observe the flight pattern; Long-tailed Skuas are more agile, while Great Skuas are aggressive and often seen harassing other birds.

Size

The Long-tailed Skua is notably smaller and more slender compared to the large and bulky Great Skua.

Plumage

The Long-tailed Skua has a more streamlined appearance with long central tail feathers in adults, while the Great Skua has a more uniform brown plumage without elongated tail feathers.

Behaviour

Long-tailed Skuas are agile fliers, often seen alone over the open ocean during migration. Great Skuas are more aggressive and are known for their kleptoparasitic behavior, often harassing other seabirds for food.

Habitat

Long-tailed Skuas breed in the Arctic tundra and migrate over open oceans, rarely seen near shore. Great Skuas are typically found in coastal areas and are more likely to be seen near land.