I took these Neotropic Cormorant photos at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge in Grayson County, Texas two days ago. I was happy to see this cormorant species.

Neotropic Cormorant at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, Grayson County, TexasNeotropic Cormorant at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge – Nikon D500, f8, 1/1600, ISO 1250, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

The light was dreadful that day due to clouds. Getting to the refuge was a pain because my GPS kept sending me to an area where the roads were closed due to recent flooding, but I am glad I went anyway. I felt the need to explore this refuge, which is south of where I now live.

I did see Neotropic Cormorants sporadically in Utah. Now I live where I should be able to see and photograph them year-round. I’m just a little north of their year-round range in Oklahoma, but this refuge is within that range and isn’t far away at all. Then when I factor in the effects of climate change? I’m almost certain I’ll see this species close to home year-round.

Resting Neotropic Cormorant, Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, Grayson County, TexasResting Neotropic Cormorant – Nikon D500, f8, 1/800, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

This cormorant may have hatched last year; the lighter-colored speckling on the head, neck, and chest would be darker for this species in adult breeding plumage.

I found this cormorant on the Wildlife Drive at the refuge, which had been closed for a bit due to the flooding. I delayed my first trip to this refuge because of the closures. There are still some roads that were closed two days ago, but I did enjoy my exploration of this new-to-me wildlife refuge immensely.

Hopefully, I will be able to get back there soon when there is better light and when all of the roads are open again.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Neotropic Cormorant photos plus facts and information about this species.