Overview

The great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a widespread member of the cormorant group of seabirds. It appears as a large, mostly black bird with a long neck and a hooked bill adapted for catching fish. Common names include great cormorant and great black cormorant; regional populations show noticeable size and plumage variation.

Identification and characteristics

Adults typically have glossy dark plumage, a pale throat patch edged with yellow or orange, webbed feet and a stout, hooked bill. They are powerful swimmers and pursue prey underwater, using their feet for propulsion. When resting, they are often seen standing with wings partly spread — a posture linked to feather drying and thermoregulation.

  • Size: substantial variation by region; reported weight ranges from about 1.5 kg to over 5 kg.
  • Wingspan: a large wingspan relative to body size enables both soaring and strong flapping flight.
  • Plumage: breeding birds may show white throat or flank patches in some populations.

Distribution and habitat

The species breeds across much of the Old World and along the Atlantic coast of North America, and also occupies inland lakes, rivers and reservoirs. It tolerates a wide range of coastal and freshwater habitats, from rocky shores and estuaries to sheltered bays and large inland waters.

Behaviour, diet and reproduction

Great cormorants are primarily fish-eaters; they dive and swim beneath the surface to capture prey. They often nest colonially in trees, on cliffs or on the ground, building nests from sticks and seaweed. Both parents share incubation and chick rearing duties. Lifespan commonly exceeds a decade in the wild, and individuals can travel widely outside the breeding season.

Relationship with people and conservation

The species is adaptable and has recovered or expanded in many areas after historic declines. It is assessed as of relatively low conservation concern in global terms, though local conflicts can arise where they affect fisheries or aquaculture. In some cultures cormorants have been trained for traditional fishing, and in others they have been subject to control measures. Management tends to balance population status, economic interests and ecosystem roles.

Notable distinctions

Several subspecies and regional forms exist, differing in size and minor plumage details. The great cormorant is one of the largest members of its genus and is readily distinguished from smaller cormorant and shag species by its bulk, broader bill and widespread distribution.