The RSPB: Cormorant

Cormorant

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Latin name

Phalacrocorax carbo

Family

Cormorants and shags (Phalacrocoracidae)

Overview

A large and conspicuous waterbird, the cormorant has an almost primitive appearance with its long neck making it appear almost reptilian. It is often seen standing with its wings held out to dry. Regarded by some as black, sinister and greedy, cormorants are supreme fishers which can bring them into conflict with anglers and they have been persecuted in the past. The UK holds internationally important wintering numbers and with its breeding concentrations at a few sites it is an Amber List species.

Where to see them

Found around the UK coastline on rocky shores, coastal lagoons and estuaries, it is increasingly being seen inland at reservoirs, lakes and gravel pits.

When to see them

All year round.

What they eat

Fish

Estimated numbers

Europe	UK breeding*	UK wintering*	UK passage*
-	9,018 pairs	24,200 birds	-

* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn.

Distribution

Key

In the UK: All UK

Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.

Find out more

Identification

Audio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100)