Double-crested Cormorant

Double-crested Cormorant

Nannopterum auritum

Least Concern

Quick Facts

Kingdom: Animalia
Abundance: Common
Habitat: Wetland, Coastal
Activity: Diurnal (Active during day)
Lifespan: 6 years on average

A large, glossy, black, underwater swimmer that dives to find its prey and often swims with just its neck and head visible. It has a long tail and neck, a yellow-orange throat patch, and can appear to have a green sheen in certain lighting. The “double-crest” refers to the crests that grow during breeding season but are often hard to see. These birds hunt in packs. Like the Anhinga, the Cormorant lacks oil glands, making them not fully waterproof. They can often be seen with their wings outstretched allowing them to dry. Despite years of persecution by fisherman who viewed them as competitors, the Cormorant population is currently increasing.

Diet

Mainly eats fish, but will sometimes also eat amphibians, crustaceans and insects.

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Suliformes
Family: Phalacrocoracidae
Genus: Nannopterum
Species: Nannopterum auritum

Scientific Name

Nannopterum auritum
Breeding Season
April-August, with peak activity occurring in May through July
Migration Pattern
Migrates south in winter
Lifespan
6 years on average

Behavior

Double-breasted Cormorants can be found in small and large groups both on the breeding grounds, and during the winter. They breed in colonies and often feed in large flocks. They also migrate in large groups. Double-crested cormorants feed during the day by diving for fish. After diving, cormorants look for an elevated spot to perch with their wings outspread. This is most likely done to dry out the feathers.

Activity Pattern

Diurnal (Active during day)

Habitat Types

Wetland
Coastal

Geographic Distribution

Double-crested cormorants breed across North America, as far north as southern Alaska. They winter in North America as far south as Sinaloa, Mexico, and are common on marine and inland waters throughout their range.

Local Abundance

Common

Conservation Status

Least Concern

This species is widespread and abundant. No immediate threat to survival.

Threats & Impacts

The double-crested cormorant's numbers decreased in the 1960s due to the effects of DDT. Colonies have also been persecuted from time to time in areas where they are thought to compete with human fishing. Recently the population of double-crested cormorants has increased. Some studies have concluded that the recovery was allowed by the decrease of contaminants, particularly the discontinued use of DDT.

How You Can Help

  • Report sightings to contribute to population monitoring
  • Support habitat conservation efforts
  • Follow guidelines when observing wildlife
No field notes or observations available for this species.

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