Brandt's Cormorant
NameBrandt's Cormorant
Common NameBrandt's Cormorant
Scientific NamePhalacrocorax penicillatus
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)120
Length (cm)90
Weight (g)2100
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely black with a slight greenish or purplish iridescent sheen, especially on the back and wings. During the breeding season, they develop a prominent, bright blue gular pouch (throat sac) and fine white filoplumes on the neck and back. Non-breeding adults and immatures are duller.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet outside of breeding colonies. At colonies, they produce a variety of low-pitched grunts, croaks, and guttural calls, often described as 'uh-uh-uh' or 'karr-karr-karr'.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Pacific coast of North America, from southeastern Alaska south to Baja California, Mexico.
Identifying Featuresbright blue gular pouch (breeding adults), dark, iridescent plumage, long, slender bill with a hooked tip, coastal marine habitat, diving for fish
Description
A large, dark-bodied marine bird known for its excellent diving abilities to catch fish. During the breeding season, adults display a striking blue gular pouch, making them easily identifiable along rocky coastlines where they often nest in colonies.
