Western Bird Guide: Birds of the Rockies and West to the Pacific

by Charles K. Reed

BAIRD CORMORANTS.

123b. Phalacrocorax pelagicus resplendens. 28 inches.

This smaller Cormorant breeds on the Pacific coast from Washington south to Mexico. It is not nearly as common as the former species and not inclined to breed in colonies with the others, but is more secluded.

Nest.—Their nest building is very similar, using the rocks and cliffs on which to place their nests mostly, and very seldom building in trees. Their eggs are much smaller, averaging 2.20 × 1.40.

RED-FACED CORMORANT.

124. Phalacrocorax urile. 32 inches.

The plumage of this species differs from the above chiefly in having the forehead bare. Their breeding habits are the same as other members of the family. That the Cormorants are expert fishermen may be seen from the fact that the Chinese tame them to catch fish for them, placing a ring about their necks to prevent their swallowing the fish.

Nest.—The nesting places of these as well as other members of this family are very filthy, being covered with excrement and the remains of fish that are strewn about their nests (2.50 × 1.50).