Epping Forest - Cormorant

2011.09.30

Cormorant telling the Heron "I can still see you".

Cormorant - Phalacrocorax carbo
A large and conspicuous waterbird, the cormorant has an almost primitive appearance with its long neck making it appear almost reptilian.

It is often seen standing with its wings held out to dry. Regarded by some as black, sinister and greedy, cormorants are supreme fishers which can bring them into conflict with anglers and they have been persecuted in the past. The UK holds internationally important wintering numbers.

Cormorant Juvenile

Found around the UK coastline on rocky shores, coastal lagoons and estuaries, it is increasingly being seen inland at reservoirs, lakes and gravel pits.

Quite common in Epping Forest, I've seen them at Connaught Water, Strawberry Hill Pond & Wanstead Park.

Cormorant Juvenile

There is no consistent distinction between cormorants and shags. The names "cormorant" and "shag" were originally the common names of the two species of the family found in Great Britain.