The Pitt shag, also known as the Pitt Island shag or Featherstone's shag, is a species of bird in the family Phalacrocoracidae. It is endemic to Pitt Island where its natural habitats are open seas and rocky shores. The bird with the color of a dark body, gray chest, yellow eyes and feet can be found in small groups in their breeding habitat or alone within 18 km from their territory searching for food. The species was close to extinction in 1905 but actions of conservation have been done ever since. The Pitt shag is threatened by habitat loss due to predation and climate change causing a decline from 1997 to 2012, but there is a recovery plan by the Department of Conservation.
Region
Chatham Islands
Typical Environment
The Pitt shag is strictly coastal, nesting on steep sea cliffs, offshore stacks, and guano-stained ledges around Pitt Island and nearby islets. It roosts on rocky shores and headlands and forages in sheltered bays, channels, and over kelp-covered reefs. Birds typically remain close to their colony, rarely venturing far offshore. They are pursuit divers, using strong legs and feet to chase prey underwater.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 100 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Pitt Island shag or Featherstone's shag, this blue-eyed shag is confined to the remote Chatham Islands of New Zealand. It breeds on coastal cliffs and offshore stacks and forages close to shore, often within 18 km of colonies. The species was nearly lost in the early 1900s and remains at risk from introduced predators, disturbance, and climate-driven sea-level rise.
Temperament
social and active at colonies, otherwise solitary to small groups at sea
Flight Pattern
low, direct flight over the water with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
They nest colonially on cliff ledges, building bulky nests of seaweed and vegetation cemented with guano. Pairs are seasonally monogamous and show strong site fidelity to traditional nesting ledges. Outside the breeding season, small groups roost together on rocks, but foraging is often done alone or in loose parties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet at sea, but at colonies emits low grunts, croaks, and hissing calls during courtship and territorial interactions. Vocalizations are coarse and brief, accompanied by head- and wing-displays.
