The smallest shag found in New Zealand.  Plumages are highly variable ranging from all black to pied, but all have short stubby, yellow bills (adult), a brown eye and black feet.  Adults have yellow facial skin and a small black crest on the forehead.  Silent away from their colonies, at the nest they are noisy making a variety of harsh croaks and whistles. 

Mainly small fish (smelt, bullies, goldfish, flounder, sole) and freshwater crayfish make up their diet.

Little Shags nest in large colonies in trees, low bushes or on ledges usually near water.  The breeding season is from August to March with a peak in October t November.  The nest is a platform of sticks and leaves about 30 cm across.  Clutches contain 2 – 5 pale blue – green eggs.  There is no New Zealand information on incubation or fledging periods.

Photography by: Dr Kerry Rodgers ©

References: Heather, B.D.; Robertson, H.A. 2000 The Field Guide to the Birds of New Zealand. Auckland, Viking.
Moon, G The Reed Field Guide to New Zealand Birds.