The spotted shag or pārekareka (Phalacrocorax punctatus) is a species of cormorant endemic to New Zealand. Though originally classified as Phalacrocorax punctatus, it is sufficiently different in appearance from typical members of that genus that for a time it was placed in a separate genus, Stictocarbo, along with a similar species, the Pitt shag. Subsequent genetic studies show that the spotted shag's lineage is nested within the typical shags.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Spotted Shag being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Phalacrocorax featherstoni
- Leucocarbo bougainvilliorum
- Leucocarbo chalconotus
- Phalacrocorax nigrogularis
- Gulosus aristotelis
- Poikilocarbo gaimardi
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Aves
- Order
- Suliformes
- Family
- Phalacrocoracidae
- Genus
- Phalacrocorax
- Species
- Phalacrocorax punctatus
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