Double-crested Cormorant
Image: elainee33 (cc-by-nc)
NameDouble-crested Cormorant
Common NameDouble-crested Cormorant
Scientific NamePhalacrocorax auritus
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)137
Length (cm)80
Weight (g)1850
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely black or dark gray with a metallic sheen. During the breeding season, they develop two small, often inconspicuous, crests on their heads and a distinctive orange-yellow patch of bare skin on their face and throat. Juveniles are browner with a paler chest and belly.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from nesting colonies, but produce a variety of low, guttural grunts, croaks, and hisses when interacting at roosts or nests.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, lakes, rivers, estuaries, ponds, reservoirs
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States to Mexico and the Caribbean. Winters mainly in the southern parts of its breeding range.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, dark, long-necked waterbird, Hooked bill, Often seen standing with wings spread to dry, Orange-yellow bare skin on face and throat (adults, especially breeding), Low-slung posture in water
Description
The Double-crested Cormorant is a large, dark waterbird commonly found across North America. They are expert divers, propelling themselves underwater with their webbed feet to catch fish, and are often seen standing with their wings spread to dry their non-waterproof feathers.
