Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)
The immature Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) first spotted on Oct 15 was still present on Nov 6. The bird can now be seen both at the irrigation ponds in Las Martelas, and at the Dos Pinos reservoir, both in the Los Llanos de Aridane municipality.
Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) and avian spectators
On Oct 18 I was able to photograph the Cormorant taking off, a fairly strenuous process in which the bird splashes across the surface in a series of jumps before finally getting airborne.
Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) almost airborne
This interesting migrant has no difficulty feeding on the island as several irrigation ponds and reservoirs contain fish. However, despite having seen the bird dive and swim underwater, I have yet to observe it surfacing with prey. This could be due to the prey items being small enough to be swallowed underwater, or to a lack of fishing expertise. Further observation is required.
Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) in flight
Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) taking off
Great Cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) taking off
