Great Cormorant
NameGreat Cormorant
Common NameGreat Cormorant
Scientific NamePhalacrocorax carbo
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)145
Length (cm)85
Weight (g)2800
Plumage DetailsAdults are mostly black with a metallic green sheen, especially on the back and wings. They have a prominent yellow gular pouch and often a white patch on the chin and flanks during the breeding season. The eyes are typically green.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from breeding colonies, but at nests, they produce a variety of deep grunts, croaks, and hisses.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australasia, and parts of North America (Greenland and eastern Canada).
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Dark, iridescent plumage, Long neck, Strong, hooked bill, Prominent yellow gular pouch, Often seen drying wings with an outstretched posture
Description
The Great Cormorant is a large, dark waterbird known for its excellent diving abilities to catch fish. It often perches with its wings outstretched to dry them after foraging, as its feathers are not fully waterproof.
