Pelagic Cormorant

1/200s at f5.6, ISO:800, Canon Mark III 1Ds w/800mm


The Pelagic Cormorant lives along the coasts of the northern Pacific; during winter it can also be found in the open ocean. It breeds on rocky shores and islands. The nest is built at the cliff face, usually on ledges, less often in crevices or caves. Stringy plants, such as grasses or seaweed are used as building materials. The clutch is generally between 2 and 5 eggs. At hatching, the young weigh somewhat more than an ounce (35 g) and are naked, but they soon grow sooty-grey down feathers. They reach sexual maturity at two years of age. Like in all cormorants, their plumage is not waterproof. Thus, the birds return to a safe place after foraging to preen and dry their feathers, typically adopting a spread-winged posture.
Alaska
 
08/14/2009