Red-legged Cormorant
NameRed-legged Cormorant
Common NameRed-legged Cormorant
Scientific NamePoikilocarbo gaimardi
FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
Wingspan (cm)80
Length (cm)73.5
Weight (g)1400
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark slate-grey plumage overall, often appearing blackish, with a distinctive white patch on the side of the neck. The bare skin around the eye and at the base of the bill is bright red, as are the legs and feet. The back and wings have a scaly appearance due to lighter feather edges.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent away from breeding colonies, but produces guttural grunts, croaks, and hisses at nesting sites.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Pacific coast of South America, from northern Peru south through Chile to Tierra del Fuego, and also along the Atlantic coast of Argentina.
Identifying Featuresbright red legs and feet, bright red bare facial skin, white patch on side of neck, dark slate-grey body plumage, yellow-tipped bill
Description
A medium-sized cormorant with striking red legs and facial skin, known for its dark plumage and white neck patch. It is a skilled diver, feeding primarily on fish in coastal waters, often seen perched on rocky outcrops.
