cormorant

The cormorant, a skilled diver and fish hunter, plays an important role in the ecosystem of aquatic and coastal areas. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and lifestyle of the cormorant and highlights the importance of its protection and conservation in natural habitats.

cormorant Products

Profile: cormorant

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Birds (Aves)
    • Order: Ciconiiformes
    • Family: Cormorants (Phalacrocoracidae)
    • Genus: Phalacrocorax
    • Species: P. carbo (cormorant)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Body length of 75-100 cm
    • Wingspan: 120-160 cm
    • Weight: 1.5-2.5 kg
    • Special features: Black to dark green plumage with metallic shimmer, long neck, pointed beak, strong legs with webbed feet, striking wings and wing positions in flight.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, Asia, North Africa
    • Habitat: Coastal areas, freshwater lakes, rivers and estuaries; prefers waters with abundant fish stocks.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Carnivore
    • Typical diet: Fish, especially small to medium-sized species, which it catches by diving and underwater hunting.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Breeding season: spring to summer
    • Nest building: In colonies on trees, rocks or cliffs, often in large colonies together with other water birds
    • Eggs: 3-5 eggs per clutch
    • Brood care: Both parents take care of the brooding and rearing of the young
    • Lifestyle: Social animals, often found in large colonies; excellent divers and flyers, using their wings for both flight and diving.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 20 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Least concern, but locally threatened in some regions due to conflicts with fishing and pollution.
    • Conservation measures: protection of breeding areas, sustainable fishing practices, promoting understanding of the ecological benefits of cormorants.