Definition:

(noun) The posterior opening for a bird's digestive, urinary and reproductive tracts that is used to expel feces and lay eggs. The cloaca is found on the rear of the body under the tail, covered by feathers on the extreme lower abdomen. The cloaca and the area of the body where it is located is also frequently called the vent.

During the breeding season, the cloacal area swells to make breeding easier.


Male birds show more swelling, and bird banders will gently blow on a bird's vent to expose the cloaca to determine a bird's gender. Mating only takes a few seconds for birds, when they position themselves so their cloacas can touch to transfer sperm from the male to the female, an act that is often called a "cloacal kiss."

Photo – Double-Crested Cormorant Cloaca © Ingrid Taylar

Pronunciation:

kloh-AY-kah

Also Known As:

Vent