Right now in Michigan, a fight rages amid the fishing industry and certain wildlife enthusiasts over one particular bird: Double Crested Cormorants.

Cormorants are a migratory species with voracious appetites for fish, and data has shown that as their numbers have risen over the last 50 years, the livelihood of Michigan fisheries, especially Perch, have been affected terribly. Currently, there's a kill-ban in place which protects Cormorants, but the fisheries are hopeful to restore lethal control over the birds in the new political climate. Those speaking out for Cormorants say they have value as an indicator species that points out pollution, as well as helping to keep certain invasive species at bay.

Beyond issues related to consumption, their droppings can be lethal to vegetation, clearing flora, and changing soil composition. Their nesting grounds can be easily identified by a cluster of dead trees with white coloring, surrounded by the native green foliage.

You can read the full story here. Written by Peter Payette, Executive Director of Interlochen Public Radio.

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