Microcarbo coronatus (Wahlberg, 1855)

Scientific Naming and Length

The crowned cormorant, scientifically named Microcarbo coronatus (Wahlberg, 1855), measures 50 to 55 cm in length.

Adult Plumage and Features

Adult crowned cormorants are black, have a small crest on the head, and bear a red patch on the face.

Juvenile Plumage and Features

Juvenile crowned cormorants are dark brown on their upper bodies, paler brown on their underparts, and do not have a crest.

Species Distinction

They can be told apart from immature reed cormorants by their darker underparts and shorter tail.

Geographic Range

This species occurs along the coast of southern Africa, ranging from Cape Agulhas northward to Swakopmund.

Population Size

Its total population is estimated to be between 2500 and 2900 breeding pairs.

Breeding Colony Characteristics

It breeds in small groups, and colonies typically contain fewer than 150 individuals each.

Movement Patterns

Recoveries of ringed birds show that juvenile crowned cormorants can disperse up to 277 km away from their nests, while adult individuals move between breeding sites that are over 500 km apart.