[Birdtalk] Cormorant

[George]

Hi Birders,

Though I have not been lucky enough to get down to see the cormorant, this
has brought some questions to mind.  I am definitely not questioning
anyone's ability or knowledge, but I haven't noticed anything about the
possibility of a Pelagic cormorant.  I would like to hear some reasons to
rule out a Pelagic ( I am sure I will get plenty!). Seabirds, An
Identification Guide by Peter Harrison, shows both juvenile Pelagic and
Neotropic as being very similar.  There is a question as to rather the
facial patch comes to a point, or is rounded.  They both have long tails;
the Pelagic has a longer, snakier-type neck but is overall dark brown in
color.  I hope from your responses that I will learn about the
differences-it is always nice to learn.  I have seen both of the cormorants;
one in Texas and one in California, but never had the chance to compare them
closely.

Thanks for your help and info,

Sue Hinde

ghinde at comcast.com