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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Stuttgart, Arkansas » Harry K. Dupree Stuttgart National Aquaculture Research Cntr » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #187133
Title: MIGRATION PATTERNS OF DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTS WINTERING IN THE SOUTHEASTERN UNITED STATES

Author
item KING, TOMMY - USDA-WS-NWRC
item STRICKLAND, BRONSON - USDA-WS-NWRC
item Radomski, Andrew

Submitted to: Catfish Farmers of America Research Symposium
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/30/2005
Publication Date: 2/24/2006
Citation: King, T.D., Strickland, B.K., Radomski, A.A. 2006. Migration patterns of double-crested cormorants wintering in the southeastern United States [abstract]. Catfish Farmers of America Research Symposium. p. 24.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The number of Double-crested Cormorants wintering near aquaculture facilities in the southeastern United States has nearly tripled in the past 15 years. Cormorants come into conflict with aquaculture producers by taking advantage of the abundant and readily accessible food sources that farms provide. However, information about cormorant movements is needed to properly implement and monitor management activities. We developed a study to determine the spring and fall migration patterns of Double-crested Cormorants captured in the southeastern United States. To better understand the timing, routes, and duration of migration, we monitored 30 cormorants (7 adult, 23 immature) using satellite telemetry and recorded their movements for < 546 days. Twenty percent of these birds did not migrate and remained in the southeastern United States. Adult cormorants (0 = 9 April) departed for spring migration earlier than immature cormorants (0 = 27 April; t22 = -3.50; P = 0.002) and the average departure date for fall migration was 1 October. The average daily movement of cormorants during spring migration was 70 km (SD = 46). Mean daily distance traveled during migration did not differ between immature and adult cormorants (W = 99; P = 0.98). During migration, these birds typically followed the Mississippi and Central Flyways. The knowledge of the timing, routes, and dates of cormorant migration will help aquaculture producers and managers when allocating resources for managing cormorant numbers and depredations.