Male. Taken at Farmoor, Oxon., on February 16th 2024. (© David Hastings)
(1/1000th sec at f/8. Click image for larger version)
Taken at Farmoor, Oxon., on September 21st 2014. (© David Hastings)
(1/400th sec at f13. Click image for larger version)
Taken at Farmoor, Oxon., on April 4th 2024. (© David Hastings)
(1/800th sec at f/7.1. Click image for larger version)

Description

L: 70 - 102 cm; WS: 121 - 160 cm

A large and conspicuous waterbird, the Cormorant has a primitive appearance with its long neck making it appear almost reptilian. Regarded by some as black, sinister and greedy, Cormorants are supreme fishermen which can bring them into conflict with anglers, and they have been persecuted in the past.

Cormorants are found all round the British coast, and increasingly inland as well.

They breed on cliff ledges on sea coasts, or in trees at lakes or coasts.

British birds don't migrate, but upwards of 24000 birds over-winter here.

It is on the British amber list owing to breeding being concentrated at a few sites.

Sightings