Urile pelagicus
The Pelagic Cormorant (*Urile pelagicus*) is a sleek, medium-sized seabird, often recognized by its slender profile and predominantly black, iridescent plumage. Adults measure 63-76 cm (25-30 in) in length with a wingspan of 99-106 cm (39-42 in), weighing 1.5-2.5 kg. During the breeding season, both sexes develop striking white flank patches and two small, wispy crests on the head, which are absent in non-breeding plumage. Its distinctive field marks include its relatively small size among co...
Exclusively a marine species, the Pelagic Cormorant inhabits rocky coastlines, islands, and offshore waters, preferring areas with sheer cliffs for nesting and abundant shallow-water prey, from sea level to the immediate coastline.
Pelagic Cormorants primarily feed on small, bottom-dwelling fish such as blennies, sculpins, and rockfish, supplementing their diet with crustaceans and cephalopods, all captured through active underwater pursuit-diving.
Pelagic Cormorants are diurnal birds, spending their days foraging at sea, preening on exposed rocks, and drying their wings in their characteristic spread-wing posture. They are adept pursuit-divers, propelling themselves underwater with powerful kicks of their webbed feet to catch fish, often d...
The Pelagic Cormorant exhibits a wide distribution across the North Pacific basin. Its breeding range extends along the western coast of North America, from the Aleutian Islands and coastal Alaska south through British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California, reaching northern Baja Californi...
Least Concern
- The Pelagic Cormorant's scientific name "pelagicus" aptly describes its preference for open ocean and offshore foraging. - Unlike most waterbirds, cormorants have less preen oil, causing their feathers to absorb water, necessitating their famous "spread-wing" drying posture. - They can dive to ...