Little Cormorant

Identification

The little cormorant is a compact waterbird measuring about 50 centimetres in length, making it only slightly smaller than the Indian cormorant. The key distinction from its larger relative lies in its shorter bill, which lacks the prominent hook tip, and its rounder head profile without the peaked appearance. During the breeding season, the bird displays striking glossy black plumage adorned with white spots and filoplumes on the face, along with a short crest on the back of the head. The eyes, gular skin, and face are dark in this plumage. Non-breeding birds and juveniles present a notably different appearance, with brownish plumage, a more fleshy-coloured bill and gular skin, an inconspicuous crest, and a distinctive small white patch on the throat. In the field, the sexes are indistinguishable, though males tend to be slightly larger.

Range & Habitat

This species is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, found throughout India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and lowland Nepal. Its range extends eastward to Java, where it is sometimes called the Javanese cormorant. The little cormorant is absent from mountainous regions such as the Himalayas, though vagrants have occasionally been recorded in Ladakh. It inhabits a diverse range of freshwater wetlands, from small village ponds and streams to large lakes, and can occasionally be encountered in tidal estuaries. The species favours lowland freshwater bodies where it can pursue its aquatic lifestyle.

Behaviour & Diet

These cormorants are skilled underwater hunters that propel themselves using their webbed feet to capture small fish, typically 2–8 centimetres in length, from shallow waters less than a metre deep. They forage singly or in loose groups—a notably more solitary strategy than their larger cousins, the Indian cormorants, which fish communally in larger assemblies. When prey is captured, little cormorants often bring fish to the surface to swallow them, creating opportunities for other waterbirds to attempt theft. After emerging from the water, the birds characteristically hold their wings outstretched and remain immobile, a behaviour linked to drying their plumage. The breeding season varies geographically: July to September in Pakistan and northern India, November to February in southern India, December to May in Sri Lanka, and May to October in Bangladesh. These birds breed gregariously in trees, often joining mixed colonies with Indian pond herons and little egrets at heronries. Both parents construct stick-platform nests, typically within two weeks, and clutches of two to six eggs hatch asynchronously after 15 to 21 days. Young birds fledge after about one month. Little cormorants are vocal near nests and roosts, producing low roaring sounds, grunts, groans, and characteristic kok-kok-kok calls. They roost communally, frequently alongside other waterbirds.

Best Time & Places to See It

The best viewing opportunities depend on your location within the species' range. In Pakistan and northern India, visit during the breeding season from July to September for the most active birds. In southern India and Sri Lanka, November to February and December to May respectively offer the most reliable sightings. Look for little cormorants on small to large freshwater lakes, village ponds, and wetland areas throughout the lowlands. Heronries during breeding season provide excellent opportunities to observe nesting behaviour and family groups. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the most active periods for foraging.

Photography Tips

Capture the distinctive wing-spreading posture that occurs immediately after the birds emerge from water—this iconic behaviour is a signature moment for cormorant photography. The contrast between breeding plumage (glossy black with white facial markings) and non-breeding plumage (brownish with white throat patch) offers varied photographic subjects depending on season. Breeding birds with their short crest and facial ornamentation are particularly striking. Photograph from a distance to avoid disturbing foraging birds, and position yourself near known roosting or nesting sites where they gather communally. Overcast conditions help reduce harsh shadows on the dark plumage and reveal subtle details of white markings and facial features.