Blue-eyed Shags [Gulosus]

Description

Gulosus, commonly referred to as blue-eyed shags, is a genus within the Phalacrocoracidae family, distinguished by the striking blue ring around the eyes of its members. These birds are primarily found in the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic regions, where they frequent cold, nutrient-rich waters. Blue-eyed shags are notable for their deep, prolonged dives to hunt fish, squid, and other marine invertebrates. They are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks on water and nesting in colonies on rocky cliffs and shores. Their nests are constructed from seaweed and twigs, carefully built to withstand harsh weather conditions. Gulosus species exhibit remarkable adaptability to their frigid environments, with dense waterproof feathers and a high capacity for fat storage to provide insulation and energy reserves.