skarv

Skarv is the Swedish common name for cormorants, a group of large waterbirds in the family Phalacrocoracidae. The term most often refers to the Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), a widespread species found along European and Asian coasts and inland waters, including Sweden.

Description: Skarver are large, dark birds with long necks and hooked bills. They have a glossy black plumage and a pale throat patch that appears in the breeding season. They are powerful divers, with legs placed far back on the body; body length typically 70–100 cm and wingspan about 120–150 cm.

Distribution and habitat: They inhabit coastal areas, estuaries, lakes, and large rivers. In Sweden they are common along the Baltic and North Sea coasts and around major inland waterways, especially where fish are abundant.

Behavior and diet: Skarvar hunt mainly by diving for fish. They can stay submerged for extended periods and often feed in shallow waters before returning to perches to rest or dry their wings.

Breeding: They nest in colonies on cliffs, trees, or human-made structures, building stick nests. Clutches typically contain several eggs, incubated by both parents; chicks fledge after a few weeks.

Conservation: The Great Cormorant is listed as Least Concern by IUCN. Populations have varied regionally, and in some areas birds are managed to reduce conflicts with fisheries and aquaculture while preserving ecological roles.