Pied Cormorant
NamePied Cormorant
Common NamePied Cormorant
Scientific NamePhalacrocorax varius
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)115
Length (cm)75
Weight (g)1750
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black upperparts, head, and neck, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts and a white stripe extending from below the eye down the side of the neck. They possess distinctive yellow-orange facial skin around the eye and lores, with bright blue eyes.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from breeding colonies, Pied Cormorants produce a variety of guttural grunts, croaks, and hisses when at their nesting sites.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found in coastal and inland waters across Australia and New Zealand.
Identifying FeaturesBlack and white plumage, Yellow-orange facial skin, Bright blue eyes, Long, slender neck, Hooked bill
Description
The Pied Cormorant is a medium-sized aquatic bird known for its striking black and white plumage. It is an expert diver, feeding primarily on fish, and is often seen perching with its wings spread to dry after fishing.
