Spotted shags are a common sight around New Zealand’s coastline. Photo: Athena Rhodes

Spotted shag

February 2021

Read more from

February 2021

This bird’s European name comes from the delicate black spots on its feathers.

The spotted shag (parekareka) is a largely marine-based cormorant that can be found roosting on cliff edges. It spends a lot of its time at sea diving for food and can hold its breath for up to 70 seconds. Conservation status Endemic (occurring only in New Zealand) species classified as ‘not threatened’. Features The spotted […]
February 2021

Read more from

February 2021

More From February 2021

Related Topics

Similar Articles

The kōkako is our forest diva ‘bird of paradise’

From peaks to beaks

An ethical guide to visiting the Muriwai gannet colony

Join Wilderness. You'll see more, do more and live more.

Already a subscriber?  to keep reading. Or…

34 years of inspiring New Zealanders to explore the outdoors. Don’t miss out — subscribe today.

Your subscriber-only benefits:

All this for as little as $6.75/month.

1

free articles left this month.

Already a subscriber? Login Now