Cape Cormorant

The Cape cormorant is a blue-black bird with a glossy shine. The entire body follows the same coloration. There is little to no sexual dimorphism, with both males and females measuring 61–64 cm and weighing 1.1-1.3 kg, along with a similar plumage. The beak is dark grey-black, and a deep yellow-orange gular pouch can be observed. The eyes are turquoise with a greenish eye-ring around them. Both non-breeding and immature adults have duller plumage, with a brown throat for immature adults. Juveniles are browner than immature adults, with grey eyes and a black, white, or speckled gular pouch. Voice: Vocalization in Cape cormorants is mostly used during the breeding season. Its use is significantly reduced, or even absent, during the non-breeding period. There are five vocalization variations in adults, and three in chicks. Adult Cape cormorants have different vocalizations for flying, courtship, maintenance, feeding, and the presence of a threat.