The Great Cormorant is a large, black waterbird found along coastlines, estuaries, lakes and inland waterways across Australia, including New South Wales.
It is recognised by its long neck, hooked bill and dark plumage, with adults showing white patches on the face and thighs during the breeding season. An excellent diver, the Great Cormorant hunts fish underwater using powerful strokes of its webbed feet.
Often seen perched with wings spread to dry, it is a confident and widespread species in both marine and freshwater habitats.
Photographed in Georges Head. NSW