Defending Our Lake: The Fight Against Cormorants

How You Can Help

Sawbridgeworth Angling Society (SAS) needs your help in protecting our lake and its ecosystem!
By recording sightings of cormorants, you play a vital role in helping us monitor their activity and take appropriate action to safeguard your lake and fish.

Every sighting counts. If you see a cormorant at or near the lake, please take a moment to fill out our sighting record. Your contribution will help us keep the lake thriving for anglers and wildlife alike.

Together, we can ensure the long-term health and balance of our fishing lake.

What Are Cormorants?

Cormorants are large, aquatic birds that are highly skilled fish hunters. They are easily recognizable by their dark feathers, long necks, and hooked beaks. Cormorants primarily feed on fish and are commonly found near rivers, lakes, and coastal regions.

Why Can’t We Allow Cormorants at the Lake?

Cormorants pose significant challenges to maintaining the health and balance of our fishing lake:

  • Impact on Fish Stock: Cormorants can consume large amounts of fish, severely depleting fish populations in a short time.
  • Stress on Fish: The presence of predators like cormorants causes stress to the fish, affecting their health and breeding patterns.
  • Ecosystem Imbalance: Excessive predation disrupts the ecological balance of the lake, impacting not just fish but other aquatic life.

To protect the fish population and ensure a sustainable fishing experience for our members, we take necessary steps to deter cormorants from inhabiting the lake.