Double-crested Cormorant
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 bare orange-yellow throat pouch and lores. During the breeding season, they develop two small, curly crests on either side of the head, which are often not prominent.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are generally limited to low, guttural grunts and croaks, primarily heard at nesting colonies or roosting sites.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, lakes, rivers, estuaries, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States to Mexico and the Caribbean. Winters along coasts and southern inland waters.
Identifying FeaturesAll-dark plumage, Orange-yellow throat pouch, Long, slender hooked bill, Often seen swimming low in water, Frequently perches with wings spread to dry, Two small crests (breeding season)
Description
The Double-crested Cormorant is a large waterbird known for its dark plumage and habit of diving to catch fish. It is often seen swimming low in the water or perched with its wings spread to dry after a dive.
