Habitat:
Rocky coasts, cliffs, estuaries

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Brandt's Cormorant, or Urile penicillatus, is a medium-sized seabird known for its glossy black plumage and distinctive white plumes on its head during the breeding season. It primarily inhabits the rocky coasts of the North Pacific, from Alaska to Mexico. This cormorant is an adept diver, feeding mainly on fish and crustaceans caught underwater. During the breeding season, it forms dense colonies on cliffs, building nests with seaweed and other marine materials. Although generally silent, it can produce guttural grunts. The Brandt's Cormorant is an important indicator of the health of coastal marine ecosystems.

Recommended lens:
400mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Brandt's Cormorant, choose sunny mornings when the light highlights its glossy black plumage. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance without disturbing the bird. Cliffs and rocky coasts are ideal places to observe and photograph these birds in their fishing activity. Be patient and wait for them to surface after a dive to get dynamic shots.