ID Keys: Two short pointed extended central tail feathers, dark
overall with lighter neck, white base on primaries
The Parasitic Jaeger is
the Jaeger most often seen from shore, as they tend to congregate over the
continental shelf within a few miles from land. They most often feed by
chasing other birds, forcing them to drop their catch of a fish, and swooping
down to snatch it themselves. They are only occasionally found inland,
most often around the Great Lakes and the Salton Sea. Only one specimen
has ever been identified in South Dakota (per SDOU's "Birds of South
Dakota").
Habitat
Found on open tundra and coastal marshes in the Arctic during the summer breeding season. During winter and in migration, they are usually found over open ocean relatively close to the shoreline.
Diet
Primarily feeds on fish that it steals from other birds. Will also feed on smaller birds, bird eggs, small rodents, large insects, and fruits and berries. They can also sometimes be found feeding on human refuse.
Behavior
As mentioned above, they most often feed by stealing food from other birds. They will also hover and swoop down to catch prey, as well as forage by walking on the ground.
Breeding
Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song
Generally silent except on breeding grounds, where it gives yelping and rising skoo-aa songs.
Migration
Summers in the Arctic. Most winter in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in the Southern Hemisphere, with lesser numbers wintering offshore in the Northern Hemisphere.
Interactive eBird Map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Parasitic Jaeger sightings
