The bank cormorant, also known as Wahlberg's cormorant, is a medium-sized cormorant that is endemic to Namibia and the western seaboard of South Africa, living in and around coastal waters; it is rarely recorded more than 15 km offshore.
Region
Southwest coast of Africa
Typical Environment
Found along the Benguela Current from central Namibia to the Western Cape of South Africa. It breeds on offshore islands, rocky stacks, and exposed coastal headlands, often near extensive kelp beds. Foraging occurs almost exclusively in nearshore waters, usually within a few kilometers of the coast. Birds roost and nest on guano-stained ledges and low cliffs, sometimes sharing space with other seabirds. They rarely venture far offshore and avoid estuaries and sandy open beaches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 100 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Wahlberg's cormorant, this species is confined to Namibia and South Africa’s west coast, where it keeps close to shore and is seldom seen more than 15 km offshore. It relies heavily on inshore prey such as the pelagic goby and forages among kelp beds and rocky reefs. Disturbance at breeding sites and changes in prey availability have driven declines. It nests on rocky islands and ledges, often in small, tight colonies.
Nesting in captivity
Temperament
colonial but wary
Flight Pattern
low over water with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in small to medium colonies on offshore rocks and islands. Pairs are monogamous within a season and share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Nests are built from seaweed and other marine debris cemented with guano and are reused or refurbished annually.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet at sea, becoming more vocal at colonies. Emits low grunts, hisses, and guttural croaks during courtship and territorial interactions.
