Brandt's Cormorant Photo Gallery
Breeding adult
Large waterbird with an oval body and slender neck. Breeding birds are black overall with a purple sheen on the head and a blue skin patch on their chins called the gular pouch.
© Matt Davis / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, April 14, 2017Juvenile
Large waterbird with a long and slender neck that is held straight out in flight. Juveniles are brownish overall with a paler neck and breast that forms a V shape on the breast (often visible on resting birds).
© Brian Sullivan / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, November 02, 2015Breeding adult
© Matthew D. Medler / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 29, 2014Not all videos have soundBreeding adult
Cocks tail up and bends neck back over its back during courtship displays. Note blue skin patch (gular pouch).
© Matt Davis / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 24, 2015Juvenile
Large, long-necked waterbird with a long bill with a hooked tip. Juveniles are brown overall with a pale chin patch.
© Steve Collins / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, July 23, 2009Nonbreeding adult
Nonbreeding birds are blackish overall with a paler brown chin patch. Note long bill and rounded head.
© Tim Lenz / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, August 06, 2010Breeding adult
Found in inshore coastal waters, especially areas with kelp beds; also large bays and coastal lagoons.
© marcel finlay / Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, June 06, 2017Compare with Similar Species
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Species in This Family
Cormorants and Shags(Order: Suliformes, Family: Phalacrocoracidae)
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