Nannopterum auritum
The Double-crested Cormorant, *Nannopterum auritum*, is a large, aquatic bird averaging 70-90 cm (28-35 in) in length with a wingspan of 114-123 cm (45-48 in) and weighing 1.2-2.5 kg (2.6-5.5 lbs). Adults are entirely glossy black, often appearing iridescent green or purple in good light, with distinctive orange-yellow facial skin and a gular pouch. A key field mark during the breeding season is the pair of small, wispy black crests located above each eye, which give the species its name; the...
Found primarily along coastlines, large freshwater lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, typically in low to moderate elevations.
Their diet consists almost exclusively of fish (up to 90% small, non-game species), supplemented by crustaceans and amphibians, captured through pursuit diving.
Double-crested Cormorants are highly diurnal, spending their days foraging, perching, and frequently drying their wings with characteristic outstretched postures. They roost communally, often in large groups, on trees, cliffs, channel markers, or other elevated structures near water. Foraging is ...
The Double-crested Cormorant boasts a widespread range across North America, breeding from Alaska and Newfoundland south through the contiguous United States, into Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean. Major breeding concentrations occur along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, throughout the Great L...
Least Concern
- Unlike many aquatic birds, the Double-crested Cormorant's feathers are not fully waterproof, requiring them to regularly spread their wings to dry after diving. - The 'double crests' from which they get their name are only visible on breeding adults and are small tufts of feathers behind the ey...