About Microcarbo africanus (Gmelin, 1789)
Microcarbo africanus (Gmelin, 1789), commonly called the reed cormorant, is a small species of cormorant. Adults measure 50–55 cm (20–22 in) in total length, with a wingspan of 80–90 cm (31–35 in). During the breeding season, this bird is mostly black with a green gloss. Its wing coverts are silvery. It has a fairly long tail, a short crest on its head, and a red or yellow patch on its face. Its bill is yellow. Male and female individuals have similar appearances. Non-breeding adults and juveniles are browner overall, and have a white belly. Some southern subspecies keep their head crest throughout the entire year. This is a common, widespread species that is not classified as threatened. It breeds in freshwater wetland habitats or along quiet coastal areas.
