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Skua facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Stercorarius pomarinusPCCA20070623-3985B
A Pomarine Skua, a type of skua bird.

Skuas are a type of bird belonging to the group (or genus) called Stercorarius. They live near the ocean and are known for their clever ways of finding food. Skuas are strong flyers and can travel very long distances across the sea.

Skuas are often called "pirates of the sea" because they chase other seabirds to steal their food. They are also skilled hunters themselves. They can catch and eat smaller seabirds like gulls, terns, puffins, and even young penguins.

Where Skuas Live

Skuas make their nests on the ground. They prefer cooler places, such as temperate areas (regions with mild climates) and arctic regions (very cold areas near the North Pole).

Skua Migration

Many skua species are migratory birds. This means they travel very long distances between their breeding grounds and their winter homes. Some skuas travel so far that they have even been seen near the South Pole!


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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Págalos para niños

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