Cormorant Fishing: A Traditional Method of Fishing
Cormorant fishing is an ancient fishing method where fishermen train cormorants to catch fish in rivers. This practice has been observed in Japan and China since the 3rd century. In Europe, it was once regarded as a sport for the nobility.
The cormorant, an intriguing and unique waterbird, inhabits marine regions worldwide. Dubbed the “king of fish hunters,” they are renowned for their exceptional hunting skills and agility. However, in recent years, controversy surrounding cormorant fishing has increased, sparking lively social discussions. Why is cormorant fishing being banned?
Is it due to their behavior posing a threat to fish stocks, or because they are a protected species? What deeper stories lie behind all this?
If cormorants could indefinitely consume fish, the decline in fish populations would have a cascading effect throughout the entire ecosystem. Other birds and marine mammals that rely on fish for food would also be affected, disrupting the entire ecological chain.
The cormorant, also known as the “water hunter,” is a waterbird characterized by unique biological features. Its name derives from the Latin term “Cormorant,” which means “black sea bird.” Cormorants belong to the family Cormorantidae within the order Pelecaniformes, and there are 36 species distributed widely along coastal and inland waters across all continents.
Cormorants are medium-sized birds, measuring approximately 65 to 100 cm in length with a wingspan ranging from 100 to 160 cm. Other characteristics include an upright neck, a sharp beak for strong biting, webbed feet, and dense plumage. Their feathers are primarily dark, often black or dark green, with light or white cheeks and chins. Cormorants have relatively short tails, aiding in their agile movements underwater.
As a type of “water hunter,” cormorants primarily feed on fish, and their fishing skills are remarkable. When a cormorant spots a school of fish, it dives into the water and uses its excellent swimming ability to get closer to the target. The cormorant then quickly submerges, seizing a fish with its sharp beak and swallowing it swiftly. When hunting, cormorants can consume fish rapidly and can employ this swallowing technique almost continuously.
Prohibiting cormorant fishing is crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
To maintain buoyancy, cormorants need to frequently clean their feathers to ensure they remain dry and clean. To achieve this, cormorants often perch on sunny spots, such as rocks or branches, and spread their wings to warm themselves. They carefully preen each feather with their beaks and claws to stay tidy.
The breeding habits of cormorants are also fascinating. They typically select suitable nesting sites in the spring, such as high perches, cliffs, or tree stumps. A pair of cormorants will work together to build a nest, care for their eggs, and nurture their young. Each nest typically contains 2-4 eggs, with an incubation period of about 3-4 weeks. After the chicks hatch, they are fed and cared for by their parents, and eventually, they will fledge.
Despite being unique and beloved creatures in many areas, cormorants face several threats. Because they prefer to forage near fishing grounds, fishermen sometimes view cormorants as competitors, as they frequently catch the fish the fishermen wish to catch. Environmental degradation and overfishing also threaten cormorant populations.
In areas with intensive aquatic resources, the presence of cormorants often leads to economic issues and impacts the livelihoods of fishermen. Banning cormorant fishing could alleviate pressure on fish stocks and ensure the sustainable development of fisheries.
Why is cormorant fishing prohibited?
One key reason for banning cormorant fishing is to protect aquatic resources. Fish are a primary food source for many and represent a significant economic resource. However, cormorants are highly skilled at catching fish, and their excessive numbers can pose a serious threat to the fishing industry. Increased cormorant fishing could lead to a decline in fish stocks, adversely affecting both fishermen and the fisheries economy. Banning cormorant fishing can effectively manage their population and protect the sustainable development of fishery resources.
Prohibiting cormorant fishing is also critical for maintaining ecological balance. Cormorants are a link in the food chain, and their consumption of fish maintains an important connection in ecological equilibrium. When there are too many cormorants, they can overhunt, disrupting this balance. Banning cormorant fishing can prevent ecosystem damage and protect the habitats of other species.
Banning cormorant fishing can protect fishery resources. As a predatory species, cormorants survive by hunting fish. Their hunting behavior creates undeniable pressure on fishery resources. A large number of cormorants hunting fish aggressively can significantly reduce fishermen’s catch.
Cormorant fishing also has certain impacts on water environments. A significant amount of waste excreted by cormorants can pollute water and negatively affect water quality. Cormorants often gather at specific locations, such as fishing grounds or lakes, where water quality can be easily compromised. Banning cormorant fishing can help reduce water pollution levels and protect the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Banning cormorant fishing can also safeguard human interests and safety. Cormorants often form large groups while fishing, which can disrupt fishermen and nearby boats. When cormorants hunt fish underwater, they create waves and splashes, not only scaring the fish but also hindering fishing activities. Large flocks of cormorants can transmit diseases and pose health risks to humans. Banning cormorant fishing can maintain normal fishing activities and ensure human safety.
