Spotted Shags (Cormorants) are easily seen along the cliff faces at Taiaroa Head. They nest on the cliffs and are commonly seen on the water below the cliffs feeding on fish that they catch by diving. These birds are accomplished swimmers and may stay submerged for 30 seconds or more while they hunt for fish. They are not known as graceful flyers and are sometimes likened to flying bricks. On windy days they are able to glide and use their feet as rudders.