Chatham Island shag  (Phalacrocorax onslowi)

Biology

The un-waterproofed feathers and large, webbed feet of the Chatham Island shag enable it to dive from the water surface and propel itself efficiently underwater in pursuit of small fish. It returns to shore after fishing where it spreads its wings out to dry the feathers (2).

Shags breed in colonies on rocky shores once a year, the female laying chalky blue eggs in a loose nest while her partner stands guard or fishes. The young are fed by both parents, who regurgitate the contents of their stomach on demand (2).

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