Great Cormorant | Birding Frames | Wildlife Photography

The Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a large, robust waterbird known for its striking black plumage and strong, versatile swimming abilities. Adult birds have a glossy black coat with a greenish sheen, especially noticeable in sunlight. During the breeding season, they develop distinctive white patches on their cheeks and thighs, along with a bright yellow throat patch. Juveniles are browner with a lighter underbelly.

Widespread across Europe, Asia, Africa, and parts of Australia, the Great Cormorant inhabits a variety of aquatic environments, including coastal regions, lakes, rivers, and reservoirs. It is an expert fisherman, diving underwater to catch fish with its sharp, hooked bill. These birds are often seen perched with wings outstretched, drying their feathers after a dive, as their plumage is not fully waterproof.

The Great Cormorant is a colonial nester, often breeding in large, noisy colonies on cliffs, trees, or man-made structures. Their nests are built from sticks and vegetation, often reused and refurbished over multiple seasons.

Despite facing persecution in some regions due to conflicts with fisheries, the Great Cormorant has adapted well to human-altered landscapes and remains common and widespread. Their presence is a notable indicator of healthy fish populations and aquatic ecosystems.
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© Photography by Ambuj Gupta
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