Geographic range:
Nearctic, Neotropical: Ranges from Se. U.S. through Mexico, Central
America south to South America (NE Argentina). In Mexico it is found
in lowlands on both coasts as far north as Sinaloa on Pacific side.
Physical characteristics: Similar
to cormorant, but slender and with longer neck, tail and sharp pointed
bill. The male has greenish-black body color, with silver-gray feathers
on the upper back and wings that are edged with long white plumes.
Wings are broad and feet webbed.
Food habits: Eats mostly fish, but
also aquatic invertebrates and insects.
Reproduction: Monogamous species
- pairs may reuse nests from year to year. In sub-tropical or tropical
latitudes, breeding can occur throughout the year, or be triggered
by wet or dry seasons. Nest is usually constructed on a branch over
a water body. Average clutch size iss 4 eggs. Incubation lasts for
around 25 days.
Behavior: Usually solitary. Good
water hunter and diver. Frequently soars and after diving perches
with wings spread in order to dry the plumage. When swiming only neck
and head are visible above the water.
Habitat: Freshwater and coastal aquatic habitats that include
shrub or tree-covered islands or shores - lakes, marshes, swamps,
mangrove swamps, shallow coastal bays, and lagoons.
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