southend pier & railway

The cormorant is a large, striking diving bird often seen fishing in the waters around Southend Pier. With its glossy black feathers and long neck, it is easy to spot. During the breeding season, adults develop white patches on their cheeks and thighs, adding to their elegant appearance. 

Cormorants are expert divers, using their webbed feet to propel themselves underwater to catch fish. After fishing, they are often seen perched with their wings outstretched to dry. These birds are highly adaptable and thrive in both coastal and inland waterways. 

Around Southend Pier, cormorants can often be spotted diving for food or resting on posts and railings. Their distinctive behavior and large size make them one of the easier diving birds to observe.