Great cormorant found almost worldwide. In the Americas, surprisingly restricted to the northeast coast of the United States and Canada; rarely seen inland. Breeds in colonies on rocky islands in Maine and Atlantic Canada. On other continents more of a habitat generalist. Distinguished from Double-crested Cormorant by larger size and white throat patch. Adults in breeding plumage show circular white patches on flanks. Immatures typically have contrasting white bellies, while Double-cresteds are pale brown on the breast. Often seen standing on rocks or pilings. Frequently dives, feeding on fish.
A heavyset seabird with a long, thick neck, blocky head, and heavy hooked bill. The legs are short, the tail fairly long, and the wings broad.
Larger than a Double-crested Cormorant, smaller than a Brown Pelican.
Adults are blackish overall with white throat and yellowish skin around the bill. When breeding, adults have a square patch of white on the thigh and white neck feathers. Juveniles are brownish with a whitish throat and belly, with some brownish streaking at the edges.
