HANGING OUT?

Bridget noticed a bunch of Cormorants gathered in the branches of a tall pollarded Black Poplar close to the river the other day. She noticed the bird right on the top branch had adopted the classic ‘heraldic’ posture. It prompted a check on why Cormorants do this. The most commonly accepted explanation is that unlike ducks, say, Cormorants can’t totally waterproof their feathers, as this would slow down their ability to speed underwater to chase fish. But when wet their wings are less efficient at flying. So, after a successful day’s fishing, they need to dry their feathers before returning to their evening roost. And being communal birds this group has gathered together to hang out!