Long-tailed Skua

🔍 Overview

A rare but regular passage migrant, mostly seen offshore during autumn. Often confused with Arctic Skua, but more graceful in flight.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium skua (38–46 cm)

Breeding adult: Pale belly, long pointed tail streamers

Non-breeding/juvenile: Slim, tern-like, with finer markings than other skuas

Flight: Buoyant, agile

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Best seen offshore from Selsey Bill, Birling Gap, or Worthing during August to October, especially after gales.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Silent at sea. Often chases terns and gulls to steal food (kleptoparasitism).