The Great Skua — Megalestris Catarrhactes (Linnæus)
The Skuas are a group of birds closely allied to the Gulls, being very similar in general build, but both the claws and beaks are sharper and more hooked.
As a rule they chase Gulls and Terns, compelling them by so doing to disgorge their last meal; this the Skua then devours, leaving the Gull in peace to hunt for more. They are not, however, always content with this second-hand dinner, but sometimes kill and eat the Gulls themselves; they also devour offal and carrion.
The Great Skua is a scarce species, and is but seldom seen round our shores. The only breeding-stations within the United Kingdom are on two islands of the Shetlands, where it is strictly protected. During the winter, unless driven inshore by stress of weather, it keeps out at sea, remaining near the Gulls on the fishing-grounds.
The nest is a “scrape” among the heather on the highest part of some island, and the eggs, two in number, are olive brown with darker markings. In defence of their home this species is very bold, sweeping down continually at an intruder and even striking at him with their wings.
The sexes are alike, and are dark brown above with chestnut and whitish mottlings; below they are of a uniform rufous brown. The claws are hooked and sharp. Length 21 in.; wing 16 in.
The young resemble their parents.