Reed cormorant

Introduction: Reed cormorants (Phalacrocorax africanus) are regular prey to the African fish eagle and occasionally the tawny eagle and black sparrowhawk. This can occur in any freshwater habitat except for very fast-flowing streams. Rests on banks or in reeds after periods of low swimming in shallow water. Performs a rather take-off from the water, running along the surface of the water, using wings and feet to gain momentum.

Distribution: Mostly along major river systems such as the Kunene, Kavango, Zambezi and Chobe Rivers. Also found in Etosha National Park, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay and other central and northern ranges. Abundant in Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve.

Diet: Feeds with flocks of great white pelicans, often swallowing small prey underwater, larger prey bought to the surface and swallowed head first. Eats mainly fish, frogs and occasionally small birds.

Description: Glossy black body. Very similar to crowned cormorant in marine habitats, but slightly smaller in size.

Breeding: Nests with other water birds such as cattle egrets, African darters and black-headed herons. An untidy platform of sticks and reeds, holds a shallow cup lined with grass. Females lay between 1 and 6 eggs, year-round and incubated for around 24 days.

Size: 60cm.

Weight: 580g.

Wingspan: 90cm.