Pomarine Skua vs Great Skua

The Pomarine Skua and Great Skua can be distinguished primarily by size and tail structure. The Pomarine Skua is smaller with a distinctive spoon-shaped tail projection, while the Great Skua is larger and lacks this feature.

1. Size and Bulk: The Great Skua is larger and heavier. 2. Tail Structure: Look for the spoon-shaped tail projection in Pomarine Skuas. 3. Plumage Contrast: Pomarine Skuas may show more contrast between dark cap and pale nape. 4. Behavior: Note the aggressive behavior of Great Skuas compared to the more kleptoparasitic behavior of Pomarine Skuas. 5. Habitat: Consider the location; Pomarine Skuas are more Arctic, while Great Skuas are more North Atlantic.

The Great Skua is significantly larger and bulkier than the Pomarine Skua.

Both species have variable plumage, but the Pomarine Skua often shows a more contrasting dark cap and pale nape, especially in light morphs. The Great Skua typically has a more uniform brown plumage with less contrast.

Pomarine Skuas are often seen harassing other birds for food, while Great Skuas are more aggressive and may directly attack other birds.

Pomarine Skuas are more likely to be found in Arctic breeding grounds and open ocean, whereas Great Skuas are often found in coastal and offshore waters in the North Atlantic.