Northern Gannet vs Pygmy Cormorant

The Northern Gannet and Pygmy Cormorant are both seabirds but differ significantly in size and habitat preference. Northern Gannets are large, white birds with black wingtips, while Pygmy Cormorants are much smaller and dark overall. These differences are key for identification in the field.

Size and plumage are the most reliable field marks: look for the large, white Northern Gannet with black wingtips versus the small, dark Pygmy Cormorant. Habitat is also a strong indicator: gannets are coastal, while cormorants are often inland. Behavior can aid identification: gannets plunge-dive, whereas cormorants dive from the surface.

The Northern Gannet is much larger, with a wingspan of up to 2 meters, while the Pygmy Cormorant is notably smaller, with a wingspan around 60 cm.

Northern Gannets are predominantly white with black wingtips, especially in adults. In contrast, Pygmy Cormorants are dark brown to black all over, lacking the striking white plumage of the gannet.

Northern Gannets are known for their dramatic plunge-diving behavior to catch fish, whereas Pygmy Cormorants dive from the surface to catch their prey underwater.

Northern Gannets are typically found in coastal areas and on cliffs, often nesting in large colonies. Pygmy Cormorants prefer inland freshwater bodies like lakes and rivers, often seen perched on trees or reeds.

Northern Gannets are generally silent at sea but can be noisy at colonies with harsh calls. Pygmy Cormorants have a variety of croaks and grunts, especially during breeding season.