Pygmy Cormorant
NamePygmy Cormorant
Common NamePygmy Cormorant
Scientific NameMicrocarbo pygmaeus
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsAdults are predominantly glossy black with a bronze-green sheen, especially on the back and wings. The head and neck are often a duller brown. Breeding adults develop small white tufts on the sides of the head and neck. Juveniles are duller brown overall with a paler belly.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent outside of breeding colonies. Within colonies, they produce a variety of grunts, hisses, and croaking sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across southeastern Europe, southwestern Asia, and parts of the Middle East, typically in freshwater and brackish wetlands.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for a cormorant, Relatively long tail, Slender, slightly hooked bill, Dark, glossy plumage, Often perches with wings spread to dry
Description
The Pygmy Cormorant is a small, dark waterbird with a relatively long tail and a slender bill. It is often seen perching on rocks or branches near water, frequently spreading its wings to dry after diving for food.
