Neotropic Cormorant

The Neotropic Cormorant occurs widely across Ecuador, from coastal estuaries and inland lakes to highland wetlands up to about 3,000 meters, favoring open aquatic habitats with perching sites. It is generally common and conspicuous, often seen perched with wings spread to dry or diving for fish in rivers, reservoirs, and mangroves. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a broad continental range and a stable population that adapts well to human-altered environments. Natural history observations highlight its colonial nesting on trees or cliffs near water, its strong flight and underwater pursuit of prey, and its role as a top aquatic predator in Ecuador’s wetland ecosystems.