Head to head
South Georgia Shag vs Imperial Shag
South Georgia Shag
VS Imperial Shag
Both shags share the vivid blue eye-ring that gives the wider group its nickname, but differ in range and breeding display.
| South Georgia Shag | Imperial Shag | |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific name | Leucocarbo georgianus | Leucocarbo atriceps |
| Range | Endemic to South Georgia and nearby islands | Sub-Antarctic islands and southern South America |
| Blue eye-ring | Present, vivid blue | Present, gives it the name blue-eyed shag |
| Breeding display | Bright orange caruncles appear | Not documented as developing caruncles |
| Migration | A year-round resident | Not documented as migratory |
| Conservation status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Population trend | Stable | Stable |
| Habitat | Ocean, coastal | Ocean, coastal |
South Georgia Shag vs Imperial Shag: common questions
Which one is called the blue-eyed shag?
The imperial shag is the one commonly nicknamed the blue-eyed shag, though the South Georgia shag shares the same vivid blue eye-ring found across this wider group of related species.
Which one is endemic to a single island group?
The South Georgia shag is endemic this way, breeding only around South Georgia and a small number of nearby islands, unlike the more widely ranging imperial shag.
Do both shags dive for fish the same way?
Yes, both species dive to considerable depth in pursuit of fish, using their feet for underwater propulsion rather than relying primarily on their wings, a technique typical of shags generally.