Cormorant

A cormorant is a dark-colored, web-footed seabird belonging to the family Phalacrocoracidae. They are known for their long, slender necks, hooked beaks, and distinctive posture of spreading their wings to dry after diving in the water. Cormorants are excellent swimmers and divers, using their webbed feet to propel themselves underwater in pursuit of fish, their primary food source. They are found in coastal regions, inland waters, and even some freshwater environments around the world. Cormorants build their nests in trees, on cliffs, or on the ground, often in colonies, and can be quite vocal. They play a role in the ecosystem as a predator, and historically they have also been used by humans for fishing in certain cultures.

Cormorant meaning with examples

• The fisherman watched as a lone cormorant plunged into the murky lake, disappearing beneath the surface for a considerable time. He knew it was after the plentiful perch in the deeper areas. Once it surfaced, the cormorant's movements told the tale of successful fishing, which would have it dive again soon after.
• On the cliffs overlooking the ocean, a large colony of cormorants could be seen. Their nests, constructed from twigs and seaweed, were crammed onto the rocks, making a cacophony of chatter. They were busy feeding their chicks, flying back and forth to supply them with fish they had skillfully caught from the ocean depths.
• The artfully crafted wooden decoys, meant to draw in the cormorants, were prepared by the experienced hunter. With each year the hunter had tried different approaches, the decoys the most effective. As the sunlight began to fade he positioned the decoys in the shallow water anticipating a day of plentiful harvest.
• The coastal wetlands teemed with life, including a large flock of cormorants resting on submerged logs. They looked almost statuesque as they spread their wings to dry, their sleek, black feathers glistening in the afternoon sun. The serene silence that followed was interrupted by the chatter of other waterbirds.
• In some parts of Asia, cormorants have been trained to fish, with a cord tied around their necks to prevent them from swallowing their catch, which can be a fascinating display to watch. These birds are highly effective hunters and bring a bountiful catch of fish to their owners, as the cormorant looks for more.