Discover the fascinating Cape Cormorants – majestic seabirds of the Southern Cape Province's Atlantic coast, residing on Dyer Island and navigating the nutrient-rich Benguela Current waters.
Cape Cormorants (Phalacrocorax capensis) are captivating seabirds uniquely adapted to the Atlantic coast of the Southern Cape Province. Native to offshore islands like Dyer Island, these birds are known for their impressive flocking behavior and sophisticated hunting techniques. The Cape Cormorants exploit the nutrient-rich Benguela Current to hunt sardines and anchovies in deep waters. A remarkable behavior of these birds is drying their wings by fluttering in the wind, as they lack oil glands to make their feathers water-repellent. This adaptation allows them to thrive efficiently in their environment. At sunrise, the Cape Cormorants venture into the open sea, where they skillfully dive to catch their prey. The daily return of flocks in V-formation is impressive, showcasing their social structure and efficient flying techniques. Unfortunately, the population of Cape Cormorants has been declining in recent years due to environmental changes and human impacts. Protecting these birds and their habitats is crucial to preserving their fascinating presence along the Atlantic coast. The stunning photographs of these birds on Dyer Island offer a unique glimpse into their lives and challenges as they survive in one of the world's most nutrient-rich marine environments.
