We saw this poor Cormorant being buffeted by the surf as he made his way to shore, where he sat for some time with his head tucked under his wing for warmth. Caroline commented that "they know when it's their time."
He was visited by two other Cormorants, who seemed to be keeping company and urging him on. Yes, we may be attributing human responses to some birds. It may have been an illusion, but one that was convincing to me and Caroline.