The Family Phalacrocoracidae is a group of water birds commonly known as cormorants and shags. Although these birds belong to the same family, they are distinct from each other in terms of their physical appearance and habitat. The term "cormorant" is often used interchangeably with Phalacrocoracidae, but some prefer to use the term "shag" to refer to the members of this family that have a crested head and longer neck. Other synonyms for Phalacrocoracidae include the "pelican family" and the "water crows". These birds are found on all continents except Antarctica and are renowned for their diving abilities and high levels of intelligence.