Fauna
Bird

Pied Cormorant

Phalacrocorax varius

Also known as Australian Pied Cormorant, Pied Shag, Kāruhiruhi, Great Pied Cormorant

Pied cormorants are striking coastal divers easily recognized by their stark black upperparts, pristine white bellies, and vibrant yellow-orange facial patches. They plunge from the surface to chase fish underwater, propelling themselves with powerful webbed feet before hauling out onto jetties or mangroves to dry their permeable plumage with wings outstretched. In colonial rookeries, breeding pairs construct bulky stick nests in coastal trees, greeting returning mates with rhythmic head-swaying and hoarse, guttural calls.

CoastalPiscivoreDiving Bird
Pied Cormorant reference1 / 7
(c) William Harland, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyMullet, Whiting, Prawns
Predators
  • White-bellied Sea-Eagle
  • Australasian Harrier
  • Red Fox
ThreatsEntanglement in discarded fishing gear, oil spills, and coastal development
HabitatsCoastal waters, estuaries, mangroves, and large inland lakes
Life span12–18 years
Classification
  1. OrderSuliformes
  2. FamilyPhalacrocoracidae
  3. GenusPhalacrocorax
  4. SpeciesPhalacrocorax varius
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Sharp hooked beak can deliver a deep, painful bite if cornered; observe from a respectful distance.
Responsible observation
  • Wing Drying: Look for individuals perching on pylons or exposed branches with wings spread wide to shed water.
  • Colony Etiquette: Keep a generous distance from breeding colonies in mangroves to avoid triggering panic and egg loss.
  • Hook Hazard: Report any individuals entangled in discarded nylon fishing line to local wildlife rescue groups.
Related species
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