Cyprus Skua ID (1 Viewer)

[DavidRodley]

Took some quick shots of what I think is either a juvenile Arctic or Pomarine Skua in Cyprus last week at Paphos headland. Can anybody point me in the right direction please ? The tail makes me think Pomarine as Arctic is more pointed ?

 

[Alexander Stöhr]

Hello David,
I would judge the central tail feathers to be pointed and too long (=projecting) for a (ID-book)Pomarine and better for Arctic.
Also, what appears to be a longish, slender bill fits Arctic better. As plumage is also good (slightly washed out, but still clear barring to undertail coverts, clear broad whitish flesh to underwing, warm, orange-buffish-brownish colour also fits Arctic. So I would ID this bird as an juvenile Arctic Skua.

 

[THE_FERN]

I'd plump for Arctic as I don't think the wings are broad enough for pomarine. The bill looks fairly dainty too and the colours are warm

 

[DavidRodley]

Thank you Alexander

 

[DavidRodley]

Thank you very much.

 

[PYRTLE]

Hi David,

This is a good Autumn record of Arctic Skua for Cyprus, even though it is seen most years. The recent book on the Birds of Cyprus shows only four accepted records of Pomarine Skua.

Perhaps you might consider submitting your photos and record to the Cyprus bird Recorder, Jane Stylianou.

Regards.

 

[DavidRodley]

Thanks Pat, have sent to Jane

 

[PYRTLE]

Thanks Pat, have sent to Jane

:t: