WATERLOGGED TAKEOFF

Cormorants lack the oil gland that makes most birds' plumages waterproofed. Consequently they spend much time basking and preening. Takeoff with all that excess water is problematic. Although good flyers, cormorants' takeoffs are labored.

YOUNG CORMORANT IN FLIGHT

The brownish colors of the front half of the body and head show that this bird is from the most recent crop. Note the crooked neck, a trademark of this group.

ADULT DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT

An adult cormorant moves to better hunting grounds over the surface of Jackson Lake.