Double-crested Cormorant
Image: <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Mdf" class="extiw" title="en:User:Mdf">Mdf</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameDouble-crested Cormorant
Common NameDouble-crested Cormorant
Scientific NamePhalacrocorax auritus
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)118.5
Length (cm)80.5
Weight (g)1850
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely black with a slight greenish sheen, especially on the head and neck. They possess bright orange-yellow facial skin (gular pouch) and lores, and striking turquoise-green eyes. During the breeding season, they develop two small, curly crests on their heads, which are often not visible or reduced outside of this period.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from nesting colonies. At colonies, they produce a variety of low, guttural grunts, croaks, and hisses, particularly during courtship or when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal waters, estuaries, large lakes, rivers, marshes
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States and Mexico. They winter along coasts and inland waters in the southern parts of their breeding range and further south into Central America.
Identifying Featuresall-dark plumage, orange-yellow gular pouch and lores, hooked bill, green eyes, often perches with wings spread to dry, webbed feet, double crests (breeding plumage)
Description
A large, dark-plumaged aquatic bird known for its excellent diving abilities to catch fish. It is frequently observed perched with its wings spread wide to dry its feathers, as they are not fully waterproof. This species is highly social, often nesting in colonies.
