This species is recognized by its small slender build and overall dark coloring. The long snake-like neck is held straight in flight. The small head sports a pencil-thin bill. In breeding plumage, shows short crests on the crown and the nape, and thin white plumes along the neck. Red facial skin is limited to the area at the base of the bill and below the eyes. In flight, flank patches appear as white saddle bags. At close range, note greenish iridescence on body; purple on neck. Juveniles show a slight brownish cast overall, but are still darker than other juvenile cormorants. Birds in the northern part of the range average slightly larger and larger-billed than birds in the south.

Length: 51 (cm) Wingspan: 99 (cm)

Voice:

Usually silent. At nesting sites, gives grunts and growls.

Habitat:

Rocky coastlines, offshore rocks.

Behavior:

Usually hunts alone.

Feeding:

Dives for fish and marine invertebrates.