Shag is a smaller version of Cormorant, though essentially marine along predominantly rocky coasts. Shag bird swims, dives and hangs out wings like Cormorant but seldom flies very high. Adult glossy green-black, with short tufted crest in summer. Bill black with yellow gape. Immature brownish with black scaling to feathers; underparts buffy, chin paler.
Status: Shag bird is widespread in north and west, scarce where it does not breed. Similar Species: separated from Cormorant at all times by smaller size, steeper forehead, smaller, thinner bill and thinner neck.
Shag Bird Facts
Type
goose-like
Size
72 – 80 cm (28 – 31 in)
Habitat
sea, sea-cliffs
Behavior
swims, dives, perches on rocks and buoys, takes off and lands on water and ground.