Siva
Shag
The term "shag" can refer to several different concepts depending on the context, including a type of dance, a hairstyle, or a species of bird. This article will focus on the shag as a species of bird, specifically the European shag, a member of the cormorant family.
Description[edit | edit source]
The European shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) is a medium-sized black bird, part of the cormorant family, Phalacrocoracidae. It is known for its glossy black plumage, long neck, and distinctive crest on its head during the breeding season. The shag is often confused with the great cormorant, but it is generally smaller and more slender.
Habitat[edit | edit source]
Shags are typically found along rocky coasts and islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, including the coasts of Europe and North Africa. They prefer areas with steep cliffs and rocky outcrops where they can nest and roost.
Behavior[edit | edit source]
Shags are excellent divers and feed primarily on fish, which they catch underwater. They are known for their ability to dive to significant depths and can stay submerged for over a minute. Shags often forage in groups and are known to follow fishing boats to catch fish that escape the nets.
Breeding[edit | edit source]
The breeding season for shags typically begins in late winter or early spring. They nest in colonies on cliffs, laying 2-4 eggs in a nest made of seaweed and other plant material. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
Conservation Status[edit | edit source]
The European shag is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, they face threats from oil spills, fishing nets, and habitat disturbance.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
