DRYING OUT
A Double-crested Cormorant drying its wings
Amazingly, this water bird species does not have waterproof feathers, so it’s a common sight to see them stand in the sun with their wings spread out to dry. They have less preen oil than other birds, so their feathers can get soaked rather than shedding water like a duck’s. Though this seems like a problem, it makes it easier for them to hunt underwater with agility and speed.
Hilton Head Island, SC, USA
DRYING OUT
A Double-crested Cormorant drying its wings
Amazingly, this water bird species does not have waterproof feathers, so it’s a common sight to see them stand in the sun with their wings spread out to dry. They have less preen oil than other birds, so their feathers can get soaked rather than shedding water like a duck’s. Though this seems like a problem, it makes it easier for them to hunt underwater with agility and speed.
Hilton Head Island, SC, USA