Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus)
The Double-crested Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus) is a striking waterbird known for its glossy black plumage and distinctive yellow-orange facial skin. Commonly found near water bodies, this species is easily recognizable by the two tufts or "crests" that appear on its head during the breeding season.
| 🇫🇷 | Cormoran à aigrettes |
| 🇩🇪 | Ohrenscharbe |
| 🇲🇽 | Cormorán orejudo |
| Taxonomy | |
| Order | Suliformes |
| Family | Phalacrocoracidae |
How to Identify
The Double-crested Cormorant is an entirely black bird distinguished by its yellow to orange bill and facial skin. It is often seen perched on rocks or tree trunks, occasionally spreading its wings to dry. In flight, it is known to glide along rivers, diving into the water to catch fish.
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Characteristics
| Length | 70-90cm |
| Weight | 1.2-2.5kg |
| Wingspan | 114-123cm |
| Clutch Size | 1-7 eggs |
| Incubation | 25-33 days |
| Fledging | 3-4 weeks |
| Sexual Maturity | 2 years |
| Source | Wikipedia |
Where and When to Spot
The Double-crested Cormorant is frequently observed at Parc des Rapides, Lachine, particularly from early spring through late autumn. This location offers ample opportunities to witness these birds in their natural habitat.
Observation Records by Park and Season
| Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parc Angrignon | x | x | x | - |
| Parc Michel-Chartrand | - | - | - | x |
| Parc de la Cité | - | x | - | - |
| Parc de la Frayère | x | x | - | - |
| Parc des Rapides, Lachine | - | x | x | - |
| Parc Île-de-la-Visitation | x | - | - | - |
| Saguenay St. Lawrence Marine Park | - | x | - | - |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.