The Japanese Cormorant is a large, mostly black seabird that dives for fish along rocky East Asian coasts. In Japan, Japanese Cormorants are traditionally trained to catch fish for people.
Appearance
Appearance
It is about 33 in (84 cm) long, mostly black, with green-glossed, scale-like upperparts. Breeding adults develop white feathers on the head and neck.
Where it lives
Typical habitats
rocky coasts
sea cliffs
nearshore waters
Range
It breeds along coasts from the Russian Far East and Korea through Japan, then spreads south along East Asian coasts in winter.
Seasonal presence
This species is native to East Asia rather than the United States.
Behavior
Diet
It dives from the surface and pursues fish underwater.
Activity
After diving, it often perches on rocks with its wings spread to dry.
Life cycle
Nest
Colonies nest on ledges of coastal cliffs and rocky islands, using seaweed and other plant material.
Clutch size
2–5 eggs
Name and classification
About the name
The Japanese Cormorant is also called Temminck's Cormorant.
Conservation
IUCN Red List
LCLeast Concern·Low risk of extinction
Culture and stories
Culture and stories
Japanese Cormorants are the birds traditionally trained for ukai, or cormorant fishing, in Japan.