
©Peter Cairns/2020VISION
Shag
Shag' is a very old name that means 'tufted' and refers to the small crest that this bird sports. Look out for it in spring and summer either diving for fish from the surface of the sea or nesting on coastal cliffs.
Scientific name
Gulosus aristotelisWhen to see
January to DecemberSpecies information
Statistics
Length: 72-80cmWingspan: 90-105cm
Weight: 1.75-2.25kg
Average lifespan: 12 years
Classified in the UK as Amber following a 2024 update to the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021).