Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Blog Post Species #77/100

Few things on earth fill us with as much delight as birds, and knowing them by name only adds to our pleasure. In California’s Central Valley, with only a little bit of effort, anyone can learn 100 local bird species. Especially since on a daily basis Valley Residents come in contact with at least a dozen species that most recognize, but may not know the name of. The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about and be able to identify 100 common valley birds.
Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain

WHAT’S IN A NAME

Double-crested Cormorant – Nannopterum auritus
Name Roots: (Gr. nannos  dwarf; pteron  wing; – auritus, “eared”)

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

The Double-crested Cormorant has a dark body with orange bare skin at the base of the bill. While breeding adults are all black, immatures and nonbreeders have a paler breast.

AN INTERESTING OR UNUSUAL FACT

Unlike most water birds, the feathers of the Double-crested Cormorant are not waterproof. After spending time in the water, they must dry their wings.

DISTRIBUTION STATUS IN THE CENTRAL VALLEY

The Double-crested Cormorant is a Common Yearround Resident in California’s Central Valley and can be found in Freshwater Wetlands and Open Water.

eBird Bar Charts & Map Grid

Previous Learn 100 Common Valley Birds Posts

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ABOUT ME

Through my lens and prose I hope to instill a greater sense of awe, compassion and inspiration as I discover new creatures, explore interesting habitats, and gain wisdom about the natural world that’s all around us. It is my hope that readers are motivated to learn more about our environment and its inhabitants, and become passionate advocates for conservation.

I earned my college degree in biology, a foundation that shaped not only how I see the world, but how I’ve spent my life sharing it with others. For more than 35 years, I worked in education as both a teacher and administrator, guiding students through the wonders of science and the joy of discovery. That same spirit of curiosity has carried me through decades of volunteer work in citizen science and conservation. This blog brings together my passions for birding, conservation, and storytelling.

~ Jim Gain