Pelagic Cormorant song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Pelagic Cormorant, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Pelagic Cormorants are generally silent away from the breeding colony. There is no complex song.

Calls

At the colony, they produce a variety of guttural, croaking, grunting, and hissing sounds, particularly during courtship, territorial disputes, and when interacting with chicks. Calls include 'arr-arr-arr' or 'guk-guk-guk' sounds.

When they vocalize

Primarily vocal during the breeding season at nesting colonies.

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