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.
A 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.
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