|
Natural History: This bird forages
for fish, mostly by diving and being able to stay underwater for
about 30 seconds. It tends to rest and roost on offshore cliffs
and on rocks, wharfs, and branches. It sometimes rests on water.
Its takeoff is quite laborious. The nests are quite sensitive to
disturbance and are found on rocky cliffs, slopes, and tall trees.
Breeding season runs from April to August. This species is monogamous
by nature and nests colonially.
General Distribution: In the
Presidio, this species can be found in bays, the ocean, ponds, and
tidal rocky areas.
Frequency: The Double-crested Cormorant is common throughout the
year within the Presidio.
Identifying Characteristics:
This bird has the tendency to be an upright percher with a S-shaped
neck and hook-tipped bill. Unlike its relative, the Brandt's Cormorant,
this species displays an orange-yellow throat pouch. These birds
tend to cluster in silent flocks, forming in geese-like patterns.
|