The imperial shag or imperial cormorant is a black-and-white cormorant native to southern South America, islands of the Subantarctic, and the Antarctic Peninsula, primarily in rocky coastal regions, but locally also at large inland lakes. Some taxonomic authorities, including the International Ornithologists' Union, place it in the genus Leucocarbo, others in the genus Phalacrocorax. It is also known as the blue-eyed shag, blue-eyed cormorant and by many other names, and is one of a larger group of cormorants called blue-eyed shags. The taxonomy is complex, and several types are treated as either subspecies or separate species.
Region
Southern South America and the Antarctic Peninsula
Typical Environment
Found along rocky coasts, islets, and fjords of southern Chile and Argentina, including Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland Islands, and north along parts of Patagonia. It also occurs on islands of the Subantarctic and locally along the Antarctic Peninsula. Colonies are typically near productive nearshore waters with abundant fish and kelp beds. In some areas, it also breeds or roosts near large inland lakes and fjords. Birds usually forage close to colonies but may range tens of kilometers at sea.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the imperial cormorant or blue-eyed shag, this species is part of a complex whose taxonomy has been debated, with some authorities splitting several regional forms. It breeds colonially on cliffs and rocky coasts and is a powerful diver, often reaching substantial depths to capture benthic fish. Adults show a striking cobalt-blue eye ring and an orange-yellow caruncle at the bill base during the breeding season. They are important marine predators in subantarctic ecosystems and indicators of nearshore fish availability.
A white-cheeked L. (a.) atriceps with black-cheeked L. (a.) albiventer on either side. Beagle Channel, Argentina
An immature L. (a.) albiventer in Patagonia, Argentina
A large colony of L. (a.) albiventer at the Beagle Channel, Argentina. Notice the numerous all-brownish chicks.
Imperial Shags nesting near Tucker Islets, Patagonia.
Imperial shag landing on an island in the Beagle Channel, Argentina
Temperament
social and colonial
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, rapid wingbeats close to the water
Social Behavior
Breeds in dense colonies on cliffs, rock ledges, and low islands, often alongside other seabirds. Pairs are generally monogamous within a season, constructing nests of seaweed, grass, and guano. Both parents incubate and feed the chicks by regurgitation. Outside breeding, birds often roost communally on rocks or jetties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
At colonies, vocalizations are low, guttural grunts and croaks, accompanied by hisses and bill-clattering in close interactions. Calls are functional rather than musical and are used for pair contact, territorial displays, and chick–parent communication.
