Double-crested Cormorant
Image: Bill Palmer (cc-by-nc)
NameDouble-crested Cormorant
Common NameDouble-crested Cormorant
Scientific NameNannopterum auritum
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)118.5
Length (cm)80.5
Weight (g)1850
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely black with a slight metallic sheen. They have a prominent orange or yellow gular pouch (throat skin) and often bright blue-green eyes. During the breeding season, they may develop two small, barely visible crests on their head.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from breeding colonies. At colonies, they produce a variety of low, guttural grunts, croaks, and hisses.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, freshwater, estuaries, lakes, rivers
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States and Mexico, and into parts of the Caribbean. Migratory populations move south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, dark waterbird, Long neck and slender, hooked bill, Prominent orange/yellow gular pouch, Often seen standing with wings spread to dry, Webbed feet for diving
Description
The Double-crested Cormorant is a large, dark waterbird commonly seen drying its wings in a characteristic spread-wing posture. It is an expert diver, using its powerful webbed feet to pursue and catch fish underwater.
