Red-throated Diver vs Pelagic Cormorant

In short

The Red-throated Diver and Pelagic Cormorant can be distinguished by their habitat preferences and plumage. The Diver is typically found in freshwater lakes during breeding and coastal waters in winter, while the Cormorant is more marine-oriented year-round. Key visual differences include the Diver's red throat patch during breeding and the Cormorant's slender, dark body.

Identification tips

• Look for the red throat patch on the Diver during breeding season.
• Observe habitat: freshwater lakes for Divers, marine areas for Cormorants.
• Note behavior: Divers fly between feeding and breeding areas; Cormorants dry wings on rocks.
• Consider size and shape: Divers are smaller and more slender.

Size

The Red-throated Diver is generally smaller and more slender than the Pelagic Cormorant.

Plumage

The Red-throated Diver has a distinctive red throat patch during the breeding season and a mostly gray body. In contrast, the Pelagic Cormorant has a dark, glossy plumage with a greenish sheen and lacks any red throat patch.

Behaviour

The Red-throated Diver is a central-place forager, flying between breeding and feeding areas, while the Pelagic Cormorant is often seen drying its wings on rocks and is more sensitive to disturbances.

Habitat

The Red-throated Diver breeds on small arctic and boreal lakes and winters along coasts, whereas the Pelagic Cormorant is found in marine environments, often near rocky shores.

Voice

The Red-throated Diver has a cacophonous call during breeding, while the Pelagic Cormorant's vocalizations are less well-documented but generally quieter.