Arctic Skua

🔍 Overview

Powerful and agile, the Arctic Skua is a pirate of the skies, best known in Sussex as a scarce but thrilling passage migrant. Fairly common spring and scarce autumn passage migrant; very scarce in summer and rare in winter. Most sightings occur along the coast,  when they chase other seabirds to steal food mid-air — a behaviour known as kleptoparasitism.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium-large (44–58 cm)
Plumage: Two main morphs — dark (uniformly brown) and pale (brown upperparts, pale underparts)
Distinctive Marks: Pointed wings, deeply forked tail
Bill: Short, hooked
Tail: Long central tail projections in adults
Flight: Swift, agile, falcon-like

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Seen offshore or from clifftop viewpoints along the Sussex coast, particularly at migration hotspots like  Goring Gap, Worthing Beaches and Brighton Marina between March and November.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Generally silent on passage. Displays highly aggressive aerial behaviour — chasing gulls and terns to snatch their catch mid-flight.

🍴 Diet

Mainly fish — typically stolen from other seabirds — but also takes small birds and scavenges when needed.

📸 Birding Tip

Watch for fast, low-flying skuas chasing gulls or terns just offshore, especially during strong onshore winds in migration seasons. Use a scope from known sea-watching points during early morning hours for the best chance.