Great Cormorant

Phalacrocorax carbo

The Great Cormorant, also known as the black shag, is a large waterbird found in coastal and inland waters. With a wingspan of up to 160 cm, it has a distinctive long neck and hooked bill. Great Cormorants are skilled divers, using their webbed feet to propel themselves underwater in search of fish and crustaceans. Their plumage is mostly black with a metallic green sheen, and during the breeding season, adults develop white patches on their thighs and neck. These birds are often seen perched on rocks or posts with their wings outstretched to dry. They are adaptable and can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including lakes, rivers, estuaries, and coastal areas.

Habitat: Coastal and inland waters