Almost two years ago, I was at a small pond in a city park near where I lived in Utah when I photographed this Double-crested Cormorant drying their wings.
Adult Double-crested Cormorant drying their wings, Salt Lake County, Utah
My focus that day was primarily on migrating Common Loons and a leucistic American Coot that I knew were frequenting the pond, but I also took photos of the other birds there.
This Double-crested Cormorant was one of about 20–25 cormorants present at the pond that day. At times, the cormorants were fishing for breakfast. When they weren’t fishing, they were resting, preening, and drying their wings. Just like this beautiful adult.
These cormorants, like other cormorant species in North America and around the world, are excellent at catching fish. With their sharp hooked bills and expert diving skills, they can chase down fish underwater with impressive speed and agility.
I see plenty of Double-crested Cormorants here in Arkansas and Oklahoma, and I’ve even had the chance to take some images of them. Hopefully, I’ll be adding a whole lot more to my gallery soon!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Double-crested Cormorant photos plus facts and information about this species.
Nice shot. The shimmering reflection really sets this pic off. Drying off in the sun like that – looks pretty comfortable to me. Thanks Mia.
I do love cormorants and am so happy you continue to see them.
That was a lot of fun! you got so many nice shots of the cormorants and loons. I have not been out to the pond this year but I have been seeing other photographers photos of the cormorants and an osprey. My job is almost done for the year (2 more weeks) and my parents seem to be gliding along better, hope to get out like crazy for the next couple of months.
It was so much fun because you were there! I hope you get plenty of time in the field soon!