Which Cormorant?

[Katie Rupp]

From the bayfront pier near San Luis Obispo in August right around noon. The sunlit eye caught my attention and I managed to catch a few frames, this one was the best. This is either a Brandts or a Pelagic---can anyone confirm an ID? Thanks for your helpful C&C and for looking.

Canon 40D; Av f5.6, 1/800; Eval +2/3; ISO 400 and 1-400 @400.

[James Prudente]

The rounded crown, pale throat patch and short tail lead me to Brandt's Cormorant, Phalacrocorax penicillatus.

[Jackie Schuknecht]

Just darkened the water a bit. Sharp as a tac in the head/eye area. Really like it.

[Gus Hallgren]

Hi Katie:

Love your capture from one of my favourites spots when living in Southern Calif.

Well done Young Lady . . . .

Uncle Gus :D

[Alfred Forns]

I think its a Brandts Katie Agree with James !!! Need really soft light on that bird to make him shine Those dark feathers are tough !!!

[Gus Cobos]

Nice one Katie...gotta love that eye...:D:cool:

[Harold Davis]

love the eye!!! jackie's repost is nice too.

[Oscar Zangroniz]

Awesome eye Katie. Very nice re post by Jackie.
Big congrats,

[Lance Peters]

Hi Katie - love the eye as well.

Soft lights the key.