Phalacrocorax capillatus
The Japanese Cormorant (Phalacrocorax capillatus) is a striking large waterbird, measuring approximately 81-92 cm (32-36 in) in length with a wingspan of about 152 cm (60 in) and weighing around 2.3-3.2 kg (5-7 lbs). Adults are predominantly glossy black, often exhibiting a subtle greenish or bluish sheen, particularly on the back and wings, with a prominent yellow-orange gular pouch and facial skin. During the breeding season, they develop distinct white thigh patches and fine white filoplum...
Found along coastal waters, estuaries, large rivers, and inland lakes, primarily in low-lying areas from sea level up to several hundred meters in mountainous regions.
Primarily piscivorous, feeding on a wide variety of fish species, supplemented by some crustaceans and mollusks, all caught by skilled underwater pursuit.
Japanese Cormorants are diurnal hunters, spending their days foraging and typically roosting communally on rocky outcrops, cliffs, or trees near water. Their primary foraging strategy involves plunge-diving from the surface, often in small groups, to pursue and catch fish underwater using their p...
The Japanese Cormorant's breeding range spans across East Asia, primarily concentrated in Japan, where it breeds from Hokkaido south to Kyushu, and throughout the Korean Peninsula. Significant breeding populations are also found in the Russian Far East, including areas such as Sakhalin Island, th...
Least Concern
- The Japanese Cormorant is famously used in 'ukai' (cormorant fishing), a traditional method where trained birds catch fish for fishermen, primarily on Japan's Nagara River. - They are capable of diving to depths of over 10 meters (33 feet) and remaining submerged for up to a minute in pursuit o...