Gulosus – European shag

A sleek and elegant seabird that graces the rocky coastlines of Europe with its striking appearance and captivating behavior. This bird is easily recognized by its glossy dark plumage, long neck, and slender, hooked bill. Found along the coasts of western and southern Europe, from Norway and the British Isles down to the Mediterranean and Black Sea, the European shag is one of the continent’s most specialized and charismatic marine birds.

The European shag stands out with its iridescent green-black feathers, which shimmer in the sunlight, giving it a metallic sheen. During the breeding season, adults develop a distinctive crest of feathers on the forehead, adding a touch of flair to their otherwise sleek profile. Their eyes are a brilliant emerald green, contrasting sharply with their dark feathers, and a yellow patch at the base of the bill gives a subtle dash of color. Their narrow body and long tail make them agile fliers, capable of swift, low glides over the sea.

The European shag is a master diver, spending much of its life at sea, where it hunts for food underwater. It primarily feeds on small fish such as sand eels, gobies, and wrasse, diving from the surface and propelling itself through the water with strong, webbed feet. It can reach depths of up to 45 meters (150 feet), holding its breath for more than a minute while pursuing prey. After diving, it is often seen standing on coastal rocks or cliffs, spreading its wings to dry—a familiar and iconic pose among cormorants. Unlike many seabirds, the European shag has wettable feathers, which help reduce buoyancy and make diving more efficient, though it must dry off afterward.