Cormorant

Phalacrocorax carbo
Great cormorant

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 does it live?

Breeding

As coastal seabirds they are found wherever there are cliffs or rocky islands. New colonies inland are mainly in trees by freshwater lakes, gravel pits and reservoirs.

What does it eat?

Fish

What does it sound like?

Noisy croaks at nest.

When to see it

All year round.