European Shag

The European Shag (Gulosus aristotelis) is a sleek, black seabird with a distinctive greenish sheen to its plumage and a slender, curved bill. Less commonly seen on our tours in Faxaflói Bay than the Great Cormorant, the Shag is a striking and agile diver, capable of pursuing fish with remarkable speed and precision underwater. Often found perched on rocky outcrops, drying its wings or preening, the Shag adds a touch of elegance to the coastal birdlife. Spotting this less frequent visitor provides a special moment for bird enthusiasts and highlights the diversity of marine species thriving in Iceland’s waters.