[citation needed] A recent taxonomic revision argues that Leucocarbo is a distinct genus, which would contain amongst other species the Otago, Foveaux, and Chatham shags.

These large, chunky birds are 68 cm (27 in) long and weigh 1.8–2.9 kg (4–6.4 lbs), slightly smaller than Otago shags.

[1] Foveaux shags are restricted to Stewart Island and Foveaux Strait, both at present, historically, and prehistorically (based on museum specimens, archaeological remains, and subfossil bones); rarely, beach-wrecked birds have been found in Otago.

[1] They breed colonially from September onwards, making raised cup nests out of organic material and guano on islands and sea cliffs.

The population seems stable and retains much of its genetic diversity in comparison to the Otago shag, which is continuing to decline.