Black-faced Cormorant
Scientific Name: Phalacrocorax fuscescens
Size: 60 to 70 cm
What does it look like?
The Black-faced Cormorant is similar to the other pied cormorants, but has a black face.
Where is it found?
Black-faced cormorants are endemic to the coastal regions of the southern Australian mainland, including WA, SA and Vic., and Tasmania.
What are its habitats & habits?
The Black-faced Cormorant is almost exclusively found in coastal and marine, including coastal waters, inlets, rocky shores and offshore islands. They can be found in estuaries of rivers. Roosting and nesting colonies are usually found on steep cliffs and rocky islands. The Black-faced Cormorant almost exclusively feeds on fish, which are captured during underwater diving persuits.
Interesting facts
Although the species is classed as secure, it is considered ‘Vulnerable’ in Victoria. Breeding colonies are very sensitive to human disturbance.
This species features in my book Australia’s Birdwatching Megaspots
