Microcarbo niger
Least ConcernAves · Suliformes · Phalacrocoracidae
The little cormorant is a member of the cormorant family of seabirds. Slightly smaller than the Indian cormorant it lacks a peaked head and has a shorter beak. It is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent and extends east to Java, where it is sometimes called the Javanese cormorant. It forages singly or sometimes in loose groups in lowland freshwater bodies, including small ponds, large lakes, streams and sometimes coastal estuaries. Like other cormorants, it is often found perched on a waterside rock with its wings spread out after coming out of the water. The entire body is black in the breeding season but the plumage is brownish, and the throat has a small whitish patch in the non-breeding season. These birds breed gregariously in trees, often joining other waterbirds at heronries.
Fun Fact
Slightly smaller than the Indian cormorant it lacks a peaked head and has a shorter beak.
Habitat
Inhabits wetlands, ranging from small village ponds to large lakes, and sometimes tidal estuaries.
Diet
Prey, mainly fish.
Lifespan
To be updated