Are there any specific times of year when interactions between European shags and other marine species increase?

Interactions between European shags and other marine species tend to increase during certain times of the year, largely influenced by their breeding cycle and the seasonal abundance of marine life. European shags, which are coastal seabirds found around rocky shores of Europe, are most active in their interactions with other marine species during the spring and summer months. This period corresponds with their breeding season, when they are most engaged in foraging to feed their chicks. During these times, shags dive frequently to catch small fish and other marine creatures, often overlapping with the feeding activities of other predatory seabirds and marine animals.

In late spring and early summer, the presence of shoals of fish such as sandeels, sand gobies, and other small schooling fish near shorelines becomes particularly significant. These fish attract not only European shags but also other predators like gulls, cormorants, and occasionally seals. Because the shags rely heavily on these fish for nourishment during chick-rearing, interactions with other species increase as birds and marine mammals compete or feed alongside each other. This ecological dynamic creates a bustling environment where multiple species congregate within the same feeding grounds, leading to frequent encounters and sometimes competitive interactions.

Furthermore, during the non-breeding months in autumn and winter, European shags tend to be less tied to a central colony and may disperse more widely, which can reduce direct interactions with other species. However, they still share coastal waters with other seabirds and marine animals, particularly in areas where local fish stocks remain plentiful. Seasonal changes in water temperature and prey availability continue to influence their behavior and interactions throughout the year, but the peak of such activity remains closely linked to their reproductive cycle and the seasonal movements of their prey.

In summary, the most notable increases in interactions between European shags and other marine species occur during the spring and summer when breeding activity and the availability of schooling fish are at their peak. These periods see heightened competition and co-feeding among a variety of marine species, making coastal regions lively and ecologically rich habitats during these months.