Species profile
About this species
The Great Cormorant is a large, dark waterbird found across Europe, Asia, Africa & Australia. It has glossy black plumage with a distinctive white facial patch & throat pouch, & during breeding season develops white patches on its flanks. It is an expert diver, pursuing fish underwater using its powerful webbed feet.
Great Cormorants are found along coastlines, estuaries, large rivers, lakes & reservoirs. They favour areas with abundant fish stocks & nearby perching or nesting sites such as cliffs, trees & rocky outcrops.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Great Cormorant with us in Hungary.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, David Miles & Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Early morning during spring & autumn when birds gather at roosting sites or fishing grounds. The breeding season from March to May offers opportunities to photograph courtship displays & nesting behaviour.
Position yourself near known roosting or drying spots where cormorants spread their wings to dry, as this iconic pose makes for a striking image. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/1000s to freeze the action when birds are diving or taking off from the water surface. Early morning light near estuaries & reservoirs provides warm, soft illumination that brings out the subtle iridescent sheen in the black plumage.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Great Cormorant
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.