Species profile
About this species
The Great Skua is a large, powerful seabird found across the North Atlantic, known for its aggressive kleptoparasitic behaviour - stealing food from other birds in flight. It has dark brown plumage with distinctive white wing patches visible during flight. A formidable predator, it will relentlessly harass gannets, gulls & other seabirds to relinquish their catch.
Open ocean & coastal waters during winter migrations, breeding on remote moorland, clifftops & coastal heathland in Scotland, Iceland, Faroe Islands & Norway.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Great Skua with us in Iceland & Scotland.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Robin Lowry helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late spring to early summer (May to July) during the breeding season on Scottish & Icelandic moorlands offers the best opportunities. Early morning light provides warm tones & softer shadows ideal for photographing these birds on their nesting territories.
Position yourself low to the ground on cliff edges or coastal headlands to capture flight shots at eye level against the sky or sea. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the bird's powerful wingbeats & dynamic aerial pursuits. Visiting active breeding colonies in summer allows close approach shots, though be prepared for dive-bombing as Great Skuas will aggressively defend their nests.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Great Skua
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.