Pelagic Cormorant (Phalacrocorax pelagicus)

Family: Phalacrocoracidae

Habitat: Coastal waters.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from islands off Japan north to the Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea; and from there southeastward along the west coast of North America to Baja California.

Field Marks: Body plumage mostly black with a greenish gloss. In breeding plumage, white plumes appear on side of neck and a white flank patch also appears. Compare with Red-faced Cormorant: note the Pelagic's smaller head size, less extensive red facial skin, and lack of bluish base to the bill.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where it builds its nest of sticks, seaweeds, and grasses on rocky cliffs.

Eggs: 3-5, occasionally as many as 7; 60 millimeter; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs; incubation lasts approximately 22-31 days. Young fledge about three months after hatching.