Jewels of La Jolla: Meet Indicolite: A Majestic Brandt’s Cormorant of La Jolla Cove
Photo: A Majestic Brandt’s Cormorant of La Jolla Cove CA | November 2025). © Wildlife Jewels® / by Azi Sharif
Jewels of La Jolla: Indicolite the Brandt’s Cormorant of La Jolla Cove
A Jewels of La Jolla™ Wildlife Spotlight
La Jolla Cove is home to some of Southern California’s most extraordinary coastal birds, and among them is the stunning Brandt’s cormorant. Today, we’re shining a light on one of these magical bird jewels—Indicolite, a majestic cormorant we recently encountered during our EYES™ monitoring walk.
Meet Indicolite: A Jewel on the Nest
Simply beautiful. ✨
Indicolate was perched calmly on his nest when we spotted him—silky black feathers, vibrant throat patch, and the unmistakable presence these seabirds carry so effortlessly. Brandt’s cormorants are coastal icons of La Jolla Cove, nesting on the cliffs and gliding low over the waves as they search for fish.
We’re so lucky to have the opportunity to observe majestic Brandt’s cormorants like him—from the quiet dedication of nesting season to their graceful flights across the open water.
Spotted During an EYES™ Monitoring Walk
We first saw Indicolite during a recent EYES™ wildlife monitoring walk, where our volunteers observe and document the behavior and well-being of La Jolla’s coastal wildlife. These regular walks help us identify hazards, understand seasonal patterns, and protect sensitive species—such as Brandt’s cormorants—who rely on La Jolla’s cliffs and waters for survival.
Indicolite’s calm presence, jewel-like eyes, and turquoise throat patch made a lasting impression, and he is now part of our Jewels of La Jolla collection, celebrating the wildlife who inspire wonder, care, and conservation.
Brandt’s Cormorants: Quiet Coastal Treasures
Brandt’s cormorants are often overlooked, yet they are among the most fascinating birds along our coastline:
They build nests right on the rocky cliffs of La Jolla Cove.
During the breeding season, their throat patch turns a brilliant cobalt blue.
They are expert divers, plunging beneath the waves to catch fish with incredible precision.
They play a vital role in the coastal ecosystem and depend on healthy oceans and safe breeding grounds.
Spotting birds like Indicolite reminds us how much we can learn simply by watching, listening, and appreciating the wildlife who share our shoreline.
Help Protect La Jolla’s Coastal and Marine Wildlife
Want to help protect beautiful coastal birds like Indicolite?
Join the EYES™ La Jolla, our community science and coastal wildlife observation program. Volunteers help monitor wildlife, identify hazards, report emergencies, and promote respectful wildlife viewing at La Jolla Cove.
👉 Learn more & apply HERE.
Discover Jewels of La Jolla!
Jewels of La Jolla™ is part of Wildlife Jewels Arts & Education. We raise awareness of La Jolla’s unique wildlife—and the threats they face—share their beauty through art, and empower the local community with hands-on monitoring and rescue skills.
