A large cormorant with an almost global distribution. Key features include its size, a pale throat patch, and the absence of a crest. Breeding adults develop a rounded white mark on the flanks. Younger birds usually show a contrasting white belly, while the African “White-breasted” form has extensive white underparts at all ages. It is often seen perched on rocks, posts, or pilings, and regularly dives to catch fish. This species occurs on a wide range of waters, from rivers and reservoirs to coastal seas; in North America it is mainly confined to the North Atlantic coast.