The European Shag is very similar to the Great Cormorant, but is much rarer in the Netherlands.
It differs from the Great Cormorant by its smaller size, but especially by its slimmer neck, steeper forehead and much thinner beak.
The yellow spot at the base of the bill is also much smaller on the European Shag than on the Great Cormorant.

I know my photo is bad, but because of the rarity of the bird I still posted it on my website.

IJmuiden, The Netherlands, 22 February 2012