Shino jacob koottanad · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image source

Quick facts

Weight2.3 kg
Eggs3–4 eggs
MigrationResident
Breeding seasonSpring–summer
Common in IcelandYes
Breeds in IcelandYes
Best timeYear-round

About Great Cormorant

The great cormorant is a large and powerful seabird found widely along the Icelandic coast. It prefers cliffs, skerries, and fjords where food is easily accessible. The species is well known for spreading its wings to dry after diving.

Its diet mainly consists of fish caught by underwater pursuit. It is an excellent swimmer, using its strong legs to propel itself beneath the surface. The great cormorant nests on cliffs or in trees, often forming large breeding colonies.

Habitat

Coasts, fjords, and lakes

Diet

Fish.

Nesting habitat

Cliffs, islands and sites near marine or freshwater habitats.
SourceLast verified: 08/09/2026