The flightless cormorant, also known as the Galápagos cormorant, is a cormorant endemic to the Galápagos Islands, and an example of the highly unusual fauna there. It is unique in that it is the only known cormorant that has lost the ability to fly. It was placed in its own genus, Nannopterum, but then was later placed with most of the other cormorants in the genus Phalacrocorax. A 2014 study supported reclassifying it and two other American cormorant species back into Nannopterum. The IOU followed this classification in 2021.
Region
Galápagos Archipelago, Eastern Pacific
Typical Environment
This species occurs along the rugged lava shorelines, sheltered coves, and mangrove-fringed bays of western Galápagos. It remains close to shore, typically foraging within a few dozen meters of land over rocky reefs and kelp-like algae beds. Its range is tightly tied to the cool, productive Cromwell Current upwelling. Nests are built just above the high-tide line on low, rocky coasts where access to shallow foraging areas is immediate.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 50 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The flightless cormorant, or Galápagos cormorant, is the only cormorant species that has lost the ability to fly. Its wings are about one-third the size needed for flight, but it is a powerful swimmer that hunts underwater. It is restricted to a few western Galápagos islands where cold, nutrient-rich upwellings support abundant prey. Population size fluctuates with oceanic conditions and El Niño events.
Flightless cormorant drying its wings
Swimming just below the surface of shallow sea water
Nesting
Swimming on sea water
Adult and chick on Fernandina Island
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
flightless; strong underwater swimmer propelled mainly by feet
Social Behavior
Pairs defend short stretches of shoreline and nest close to water using seaweed and flotsam. Courtship involves mutual displays and gift-carrying of nesting material. Breeding is often timed to periods of high food availability; clutches are small and pairs may raise one chick when resources are scarce.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet away from the nest. Around territories and nests it gives low grunts, croaks, and hissing sounds. Vocalizations are short, harsh, and carry only a short distance over surf.
