J.D.E - Photography

Double-crested Cormorant (Nannopterum auritum) Observation | Sterling, Colorado

Species & Behavior:
This footage documents the distinct thermoregulatory and maintenance behaviors of the Double-crested Cormorant (Nannopterum auritum). The video captures an adult perched prominently atop a deadwood log structure in a slow-moving water corridor. It highlights the classic cormorant "wing-drying" posture—holding its large wings outspread to dry its feathers after a dive. Because cormorants have less preen oil than other waterfowl, their feathers soak up water, which reduces buoyancy and helps them hunt efficiently underwater but requires them to air-dry their plumage post-forage.

Location & Habitat:
Filmed along the Buffalo Skull Trail ecosystem in Sterling, Colorado. The combination of quiet river channels, standing wetlands, and exposed fallen timber provide optimal roosting sites and foraging habitats for diving piscivorous birds throughout the Northeast Colorado high plains.

Seasonal Context:
Recorded during late spring (mid-May), matching the peak breeding and active foraging season for regional waterbirds. Resident cormorants heavily utilize these open deadwood snags during clear and overcast afternoons alike to manage their body temperature and maintain feather condition between feeding dives.

Production Notes:

* Location: Buffalo Skull Trail — Sterling, CO
* Season: Mid-Spring (May)
* Equipment: Canon Rebel T8i
* Media Production: J.D.E. - Photography

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Double Crested Cormorant Drying Off - Sterling Co - Buffalo Skull Trail - 5-21-26 Double-crested Cormorant (Nannopterum auritum) Observation | Sterling, ColoradoSpecies & Behavior:This footage documents the distinct thermoregulatory and ma...