A gull-like predator, rarely seen on land except at tundra nesting grounds. Alternate Adult is bulky with thin, blunt bill, dark legs, and elongated, pointed central tail feathers. Range of color morphs; body may be completely dark or, in light morph, have pale belly, dark brown wings and back, yellowish neck, and dark cap. Basic Adult similar but with smudgier markings. Sexes are similar. Juveniles may be all dark or covered in light scalloping, with short tail. In flight, note pointed tail feathers on adults and white patch on primaries. Pomarine Jaeger is chunkier, blacker, and has rounded and twisted central tail feathers. Long-tailed Jaeger has a more slender torso, is grayer with short bill and, in alternate plumage, has very long rounded tail feathers.

Length: 43 (cm) Wingspan: 117 (cm)

Voice:

Usually silent at sea. At nest site, nasal whining and single notes.

Habitat:

Open ocean, rarely seen from shore. Nests on tundra.

Behavior:

Nest, placed on ground, is lined with vegetation. Sometimes nests in loose colonies. Predatory; often harasses gulls and other seabirds to steal food. In migration, often found following Common Terns.

Feeding:

Opportunistic; eats fish, mammals, birds, insects, carrion, garbage, and berries.