The Double-crested Cormorant is a fascinating waterbird found across North America. With its long neck, hooked bill, and striking turquoise eyes, this bird is both elegant and efficient. It gets its name from the two small tufts, or "crests," of feathers that appear on adult birds during the breeding season. These crests are typically black but appear as white crests in Alaskan birds, like our cartoon individual. The crests can be subtle and black ones can be hard to see at a distance.

This species is a skilled diver, relying on its webbed feet to propel itself underwater in search of fish. Unlike many other waterbirds, the Double-crested Cormorant does not have fully waterproof feathers (they produce less effective preen oil). This may seem like a disadvantage, but it actually helps the bird dive deeper and stay submerged for longer periods. However, after a fishing session, the cormorant must perch with its wings spread wide to dry in the sun—a characteristic pose that makes them easy to recognize.

Double-crested Cormorants are social birds, often found in groups on lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. They nest in colonies, sometimes with hundreds of pairs sharing the same site. Their nests, made of sticks and lined with softer materials, are built in trees, on the ground, or even on artificial structures like channel markers. During breeding season, the adult birds develop bright orange-yellow facial skin, adding to their striking appearance.

Though they were once threatened by pollution and habitat destruction, Double-crested Cormorants have made a strong comeback in recent decades. Their population declined sharply in the mid-20th century due to the effects of pesticides like DDT, which weakened eggshells and led to poor reproductive success. Conservation efforts and legal protections have helped their numbers rebound, and today, they are a common sight across much of their range.

Despite their success, these birds are sometimes viewed as a nuisance by fishermen, as they consume large amounts of fish. However, they play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to maintain balance in fish populations. Their unique adaptations and behaviors make them a fascinating species to observe in the wild.

Next time you’re near a body of water, keep an eye out for a dark, long-necked bird drying its wings in the sun—it just might be a Double-crested Cormorant!

This week we're shining a spotlight on one of our newest designs, featuring our European Robin. The European Robin Hood design is a playful blend of nature and folklore, combining the cute charm of the European Robin with the legendary Robin Hood. This adorable bird dons a classic bycocket hat, a medieval-style cap with a turned-up brim and a feather—an iconic look often associated with Robin Hood. The design captures both the whimsy of the natural world and the adventurous spirit of one of England's most famous folk heroes.

The European Robin is a beloved songbird found across the continent, recognized for its bright orange-red breast and friendly nature. In folklore and tradition, it is often seen as a symbol of joy and good luck. This little bird has a bold personality, sometimes even approaching humans in gardens and woodlands. With its inquisitive nature and bright appearance, the European Robin is a perfect match for the legendary outlaw who roamed Sherwood Forest.

As an aside, did you know that the American Robin was named by European settlers who were reminded of the beloved European Robin, often called "Robin Redbreast," due to its similar shape and reddish-orange breast? Despite the resemblance, the two birds are not closely related. The European Robin belongs to the flycatcher family, while the American Robin is a member of the thrush family. The name "robin" stuck, even though the American Robin is larger and behaves more like a true thrush than its European namesake.

Robin Hood’s story has been told for centuries, evolving from medieval ballads to books, films, and TV shows. The folk hero is famous for standing up against injustice, stealing from the rich to help the poor, and outwitting the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham. Along with his band of Merry Men, he became a symbol of resistance and fairness, inspiring countless adaptations and retellings. His signature bycocket hat, often made of felt or leather and featuring a feather, has become one of the most recognizable elements of his look, and makes our cartoon character instantly recognizable. 

Our European Robin Hood design is a fun and creative way to celebrate both birds and folklore. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a history buff, or a fan of Robin Hood’s legendary exploits, this adorable bird-as-folk-hero design is sure to bring a smile to your face. Available on a variety of products, including t-shirts, hoodies, pillows, and tote bags, it makes a great gift for anyone who loves birds or enjoys a good tale of heroism and adventure.

Embrace the spirit of the forest and add a little medieval flair to your bird-loving world with this delightful Birdorable creation!