PHOTO: NWR Double Crested Cormorants. Credit: Donna Stanley/US Fish and Wildlife Service, Public Domain

Double-Crested Cormorants in NYS

Double-crested cormorants are a native, federally protected migratory bird species. Over time, large concentrations of cormorants may cause damage to vegetation or deplete fish stocks, and management may be necessary in specific areas to protect these resources. Under federal and New York State law, it is illegal to kill, capture, harass, or otherwise harm cormorants, or to disturb their active nests or eggs, unless specifically authorized by permit. Violations of federal or state wildlife laws may result in civil or criminal penalties, including substantial fines and, in some cases, imprisonment

Cormorant Observation Survey

New York Sea Grant and Wayne County GIS have developed a reporting tool to help document observations and images of double-crested cormorants and their impacts in New York State. Reports will be shared with relevant agencies and regional partners to help track observations, identify trends, and improve understanding of local conditions. The survey and observation viewer are linked below.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and federal agencies may implement management actions when cormorants are causing documented impacts to natural resources, public infrastructure, public health and safety, or other protected resources. These actions are conducted only under specific legal authorities and permits. Private landowners experiencing damage on their property may apply for a federal control permit through consultation with the USDA-Wildlife Services New York office (ny.form37@usda.gov or 518-477-4837).

Report Observations and Impacts

Use this form to report your observations of double-crested cormorants and their impacts across New York State.  This form can be used multiple times, allowing users to document new observations throughout the year and in different locations.

View Observations

Use this observation viewer to see records that have been submitted in real time.

More Resources

Use these links to learn more about double-crested cormorants in New York State.

• Double-crested Cormorant - NYSDEC

• Double-crested Cormorant Management In New York - NYSDEC

• Double-crested Cormorant Overview, All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology

• US Fish and Wildlife Service Cormorant FAQ

Have questions? Contact Stacy Furgal at SLF85@cornell.edu or at 315-312-3042.