Parasitic Jaeger (Stercorarius parasiticus)
~ 1828
About this artwork
This is a detailed ornithological illustration of a Parasitic Jaeger, also known as an Arctic Skua, depicted standing on a rock amidst a calm body of water with a subtle sky and distant land in the background. It is likely a plate from a natural history publication.
Did you know?
The Parasitic Jaeger, or Arctic Skua, is renowned for its fascinating 'kleptoparasitic' feeding strategy, where it aggressively pursues other seabirds until they drop their freshly caught fish, which the jaeger then snatches. These striking illustrations were crucial in the 19th century for documenting and disseminating knowledge about the natural world before photography became widespread, allowing a broader audience to appreciate the diversity of species.
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Parasitic Jaeger (Stercorarius parasiticus)
Wihelm Wright, ~ 1828