Brandt's Cormorant

General Description

Brandt's Cormorants are large and have long, slender necks. Adults are almost solid black. Juveniles are buff-brown and black. Birds of all ages and phases have light-colored cheek patches. During the breeding season, adults have a blue patch at the base of the bill, in front of the cheek patch. Brandt's Cormorants have a shorter tail than any of the other cormorants found in Washington.

Brandt's Cormorants are Common in Western Washington year round.

Habitat

Almost always found on salt or brackish water, Brandt's Cormorants inhabit rocky shorelines and open ocean. Nesting colonies are typically located on slopes rather than cliff ledges, although some Washington colonies are located on steep cliffs.

Behavior

Sociable in all seasons, Brandt's Cormorants are often seen flying in long lines, low over the water. They roost together and feed in offshore flocks, often mixed with other seabirds. They are sometimes even seen foraging in association with sea lions. They catch most of their food under water, diving up to 150 feet.