Phalacrocorax brasilianus mexicanus

(Brandt, 1837)

Vernacular names
English : Neotropical cormorant
French : Cormoran vigua

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Pelecaniformes
Family : Phalacrocoracidae
Notes : 1 other subspecies known.

Identification
The species grows to 73 cm in length for a weight of 1.8 kg. Plumage mostly black with a purplish to blue sheen when breeding. Dull yellow skin around bill, mouth area surrounded by white plumes. Small white supercillium streak.

Range and habitat
This subspecies occurs from Southern USA to Panama, also in Bahamas and Cuba. Species also found from Panama to Chile and Argentina. Lives in all kinds of wetlands, coastal areas, lakes and rivers, up to 5000 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not Listed
Status : The species is widespread and numerous, it has increased its range with the creation of new reservoirs. Commoner in South America.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation
Wild (Brownsville TX, USA), Caldwell Zoo (USA)

 

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