Feather by exposure to emulsifying agents due to human pollution. Feathers can then become waterlogged, causing the bird to sink. It is also very difficult to clean and rescue birds whose feathers have been fouled by oil spills. The feathers of cormorants soak up water and help to reduce buoyancy, thereby allowing the birds to swim submerged. Bristles are stiff, tapering feathers with a large rachis but few barbs. Rictal bristles are found around the eyes and bill. They may serve a similar purpose to eyelashes and vibrissae in mammals. Although there is as yet no clear evidence, it has been
USS Calamus (AOG-25) as did the combatant ships. While at Okinawa "Calamus" was beached as a result of Typhoon Louise, 9 October 1945, refloated 24 October 1945, repaired and returned to service. Following occupation service, "Calamus" returned to San Francisco, California, 20 March 1946 and was struck from the Navy list (date unknown). She was decommissioned 15 May 1946, and transferred to the Maritime Commission 4 September 1946. Final disposition: she was scrapped in 1964. "Calamus" received one battle star for service in World War II. Her crew was eligible for the following medals: USS Calamus (AOG-25) USS "Calamus" (AOG-25) was a "Mettawee"-class