First registration and description of the breeding biology of the Great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan
2025
Umarov, Sanjarbek S. | Kashkarov, Roman D.
This study provides information on the discovery and preliminary ecological assessment of a new nest colony of the Great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Uzbek part of the Fergana Valley. Field studies conducted during the 2024 breeding season revealed the presence of nest colonies on two islands along the Syr Darya River. However, due to the existence of a border regime, the main work was carried out on the same island. In the study area, nests were found on 54 trees. Nests are mainly located in the poplar tree (Populus pruinosa Schrenk). Conducting monitoring using direct observations and camera traps, we recorded the nest occupancy, morphometric indicators of eggs, and the growth dynamics of chicks. The results show that the morphometric characteristics of great cormorant eggs can vary significantly depending on regional and ecological conditions. The chicks’ weight increased rapidly from the moment they hatched until they flew away, although some deaths were also observed. Spatial analysis showed the expansion of colonies and the accumulation of nests, which indicates the successful settlement of the species in the region. These results provide important initial data on the ecology of the reproduction of the Great cormorant in Central Asia, emphasize the species' adaptability to local habitats, and indicate the need for continuous observations to develop conservation measures.
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