These familiar fish-eating waterbirds are a common sight on both inland freshwater and along our coasts. The similarly looking, sea-faring Shag can confuse some of the most experienced birders on a coastal cliff. In the breeding season, Cormorants have white patches near the base of their beaks and on their thighs. They’re also a stockier bird than the slender Shag – the latter also sports a mohican-like crest during breeding season.
Despite being an agile underwater hunter, its feathers aren’t waterproof. In fact, wet feathers help this species to move quicker when on the prowl, reducing the bird’s buoyancy as it darts through the depths.
Green-listed
From coastal cliffs to city centre canals, a Cormorant can be seen almost anywhere where there’s water! Did you know there are actually fewer Cormorants than there are Shags in the UK? But their more varied habitats mean that you’ve likely had more close encounters with Cormorants.
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