Species Facts

Conservation Status: IUCN Least Concern

Description: Long-necked diving bird with dark brown to black plumage and yellow face skin. During the breeding season, their eyes and the skin inside their mouths turn a bright blue, and they have white plumes of feathers on either side of their head, which is where the “double-crested” in their name comes from.

Play Double-crested Cormorant call:

Where to find them: Near bodies of fresh and saltwater all across the United States and on the coasts of Mexico and the Caribbean. Can often be seen standing at the edge of the water with wings outstretched.

Fun Facts:

• Unlike many of the other waterbirds we care for, Double-crested Cormorants do not have fully waterproof feathers. This unique feature allows them to swim and dive more effectively and is why they stand with their wings outstretched, drying.
• In March 2025, nearly 70 cormorant chicks and eggs came into care at our Los Angeles wildlife center when the tree in which they were nesting broke and became unsafe to remain standing. Double-crested cormorant chicks also came into care at our San Francisco Bay-Delta wildlife center when their nests were creating a fire hazard on electrical towers near the bay.

Threats: Fishing gear, harmful algal blooms

How YOU can Help: Fish responsibly and clean up any fishing gear that is left out.