Photo ©2012–MPF
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Recording ©2021 Peter Boesman
Photo ©2012–MPF
Click for a larger image
Recording ©2021 Peter Boesman
Cormorant - Phalacrocorax carbo
Family - Phalacrocoracidae
Also known as - Great Cormorant
The Cormorant is a large and heavyset waterbird found in coastal and inland freshwater lakes and waterways across much of the world. With a body length ranging from 70-100cm (28-39in), a wingspan of up to 121cm (48in) and a weight of about 1.5-2.5kg (3.3-5.5lbs), males ♂ are larger than females ♀. Glossy black iridescent plumage often with e a white patch on the thigh and neck in the breeding season. It has a long hooked and downturned beak which it uses to catch fish, it's main food source.
They are found throughout Europe, Asia, Australasia and parts of North America, typically seen in coastal areas but also inhabiting inland lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, especially during migration. They are known to be able swimmers and can dive to some depth in pursuit of prey. They have a characteristic behaviour of perching with their wings spread to dry them as their feathers are not as waterproof as those of other seabirds.
Typically nesting in colonies a Cormorant pair will reuse the same nest site year after year. They lay 3-4 pale blue or green eggs per clutch with both parents sharing the responsibility of incubating the eggs for a period of around 28-31 days. The chicks are born blind and rather helpless, they are fed regurgitated fish by their parents. Cormorants are classified as a species of "Least Concern" by the IUCN but local populations can vary due to habitat disturbance or overfishing which affects their food supply. Six subspecies are listed with Phalacrocorax carbo being the nominate race.
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