Pelagic Cormorants successfully fight off a Common Raven.

Michael Reinhart found a Common Raven eyeing twp Pelagic Cormorant nests with chicks inside.

The Raven swooped down and the cormorants "yelled" at the bird.

The raven had its eye on a nest with a single chick. Look how the mama bird protects her offspring, with her wing spread.

The Raven was unsuccessful on this day, but we know ravens steal a great many cormorant eggs and chicks. It's one of the many reasons we humans shouldn't feed ravens, especially close to the bluff edge. The cormorants are much shyer birds so you don't want to attract ravens to their traditional nesting area.

Thanks to Mike for allowing me to share his dramatic photos.

Another sunny, warm day on the Mendonoma Coast!