Double-crested Cormorants frequent the waters of Spuyten Duyvil Creek, a turbulent tidal estuary that runs between the Hudson and Harlem Rivers at the top of Manhattan Island. These inky-colored waterbirds possess a strong hooked bill that gives them efficient powers over small fish.
While Double-crested Cormorants are large and strong, their impressive feathers lack waterproofing. After stealth diving sessions that make them seem like little Loch Ness monsters, they must find places after fishing to spread and dry their wings.
These birds then are frequently seen in two modes. When they fish, they dive down into the water and then pop up at another place. This activity makes a fun game for the observer. When they emerge from the water to dry themselves, they frequently look like statues.
In the waters of Inwood, the Double-crested Cormorants may be seen sunning themselves on one of the rocks that emerge during low tide or on the dock of Muscota Marsh.
Their double crest is often hard to see but on a recent afternoon, as I followed a pair flying into the main Salt Marsh, I was able to detect the tufts on one of them. It had emerged from fishing among the many gulls also present.
Watercolor and water-soluble graphite on 6″ x 8″ mixed media paper. April 12, 2024
They are not the only birds that frequent Inwood to assume the “horaltic pose” to dry out their wing feathers. The Turkey Vultures will also spread their wings as a way to freshen them or to remove parasites.
Related to the Double-crested Cormorant is the Anhinga, an equally powerful bird with a longer tail and bill. This so-called “devil bird” would fit in well in Spuyten Duyvil, a Dutch name that characterizes the dangerous current as the work of the devil. One of these birds was spotted in Prospect Park last year.
While out observing the Double-crested Cormorant in Inwood Hill Park, don’t miss an opportunity to observe the sunning birds with a passing train on the Metro-North Hudson line.
Cover: Double-crested Cormorant at the Salt Marsh. April 7, 2024.
Sightings April 2024
Check the April Sightings page for birds arriving during spring migration. Recent arrivals include a Hermit Thrush, Northern Flickers, and a Fox Sparrow. Many more species expected soon! Also look for pictures of the Eclipse 2024 event in Inwood Hill Park.
Birds of Inwood 