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Aves - Neognathae - Pelecaniformes - Phalacrocoracidae - Phalacrocorax - Phalacrocorax africanus

Right Humerus (Right Upper Arm Bone) of a Phalacrocorax africanus (Reed Cormorant)

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Species Description
The Reed Comorant (Phalacrocorax africanus) is a common widespread species in the family Phalacrocoracidae. This species breeds on wetlands or on sheltered coasts, making it susceptible to disturbance by fishermen on the shore. The body of the Reed Comorant is small relative to other Comorants with a length of 50cm to 55cm and a wingspan of 85cm. Its plumage is mostly black and turns a glossy green during the mating season. It has a short head crest and long tail, and the face is marked by a yellow or red patch on the face. With its yellow bill, this species usually hunts slow-moving fish and sometimes frogs or crustaceans in shallow areas, though like other Comorants can dive to great depths if necessary. They create their nests in a tree or on the ground. The Reed Comorant is usually alone, but can also be found in small groups, throughout Africa, South of the Sahara, and in Madagascar. The species is not in any danger of being threatened because of its large range, but in some areas of South Africa populations of this species are being hunted and killed due to its impact on trout.
Skeletal Elements Available

Right Humerus (Right Upper Arm Bone)	Left Humerus (Left Upper Arm Bone)	Mandible (Jawbone )
Sternum (Breast Bone)	Left Tarsometatarsus (Left Fused Element Consisting of Ankle and Middle Foot Bones)

External Links
Animal Diversity Web Encyclopedia of Life The Internet Bird Collection Wikipedia