The apparent capability for hybridization has led to the abolition of the separate genus Catharacta for the Southern Hemisphere and great skuas.

[5][6] The genus name Stercorarius is Latin and means "of dung"; the food disgorged by other birds when pursued by skuas was once thought to be excrement.

Although it is sometimes erroneously referred to as the Pomeranian skua, the name of this species is unrelated to the Baltic Sea region of Pomerania.

They are much bulkier, broader-winged and less falcon-like than the parasitic jaeger, but show the same wide range of plumage variation.

It nests on Arctic tundra and islands, laying 2–3 olive-brown eggs in grass lined depressions.

Like most other skua species, it continues this piratical behaviour throughout the year, showing great agility as it harasses its victims.