Double-crested Cormorants – Is this bird a friend or foe?

Presentation by Bev Ramey

Inspiration for this photo presentation comes from the 150 double-crested cormorants that roost in the Douglas Fir trees in front of Bev and Bill Ramey’s cabin at Winter Cove, Saturna Island.  At twilight through the winter months these large, gangly ‘sea birds’ fly in from every direction and settle high on the branches of the evergreen trees, squawking and vocalizing a primal thrumming sound.

The breeding and wintering behaviours of Double-crested Cormorants in our coastal waters will be described.  The presentation will then provide a brief world perspective on the diverse cultural perspectives of cormorants from centuries past, followed by present day concerns.  Are you aware that thousands of Double-crested Cormorants are now being killed in eastern Canada and the US?

For us living in coastal BC, learn why the Double-crested Cormorant is a good indicator of the health of the Salish Sea. 

Bev Ramey is well-known to naturalists through her volunteer work with BC Nature and Nature Vancouver and previously for her career as a park planner with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.