Shags

Shags are seabirds belonging to the family Phalacrocoracidae. In Britain and parts of Europe, the common name shag is used for several species of cormorants, while the term cormorant is more widely used in other regions. The name is typically applied to medium-to-large diving birds that feed mainly on fish and are proficient divers.

Description and distribution: Shags are generally dark-plumaged birds with long necks, slender bills, and strong, webbed feet. Adults may show pale throat patches or crests depending on species. They occur along coastlines, rivers, and lakes across many temperate and subtropical areas, often forming large breeding colonies on cliffs, islands, or tree ledges.

Behavior and diet: Shags hunt by underwater pursuit, using their legs for propulsion. They can dive from the surface and remain submerged for extended periods to catch fish, which they swallow whole. They are often seen flying low over water with stiff wingbeats.

Breeding: Shags nest in colonies. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of the chicks, which remain in the nest or early juvenile stages until they fledge and become independent after several weeks to months, depending on species.

Conservation: Population trends vary by species and region. Some shags are common and widespread, while others face pressures from habitat disturbance, pollution, and changes in fish stocks. Protective measures and fishing regulations have helped some populations recover.

Other uses: The term shag may also refer to non-avian meanings such as a type of carpet or hairstyle, or in different contexts a sexual act. This article discusses the zoological use of the term.