Mary Allen
How Long is a Little Cormorant?
Do you have a fascination for birds and their sizes? If yes, then you must be wondering how long a little cormorant is? The answer is here! Keep reading to know more about the size and other interesting facts about these little birds.
Introduction to the Little Cormorant
Little cormorants are aquatic birds that belong to the family Phalacrocoracidae. These birds are found in the freshwater habitats of Asia, including India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. They are also present in parts of Southeast Asia, such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. These birds can be easily spotted near rivers, lakes, and ponds.
Appearance and Size of the Little Cormorant
A little cormorant is a small-sized bird, measuring around 50 cm in length. These birds have a shiny, black-colored body with a white patch of feathers on their thighs. They have a long, pointed bill and webbed feet that help them to swim underwater. The male and female little cormorants look similar in appearance. However, during the breeding season, the male birds have a bright blue patch around their eyes, while the females have a greenish hue around theirs.
Geographic Distribution of Little Cormorants
As mentioned before, little cormorants are native to Asia. They are commonly found in the freshwater habitats of India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. These birds prefer to live in wetlands, marshes, and shallow ponds.
Diet and Feeding Habits of Little Cormorants
Little cormorants are carnivorous and feed mainly on fish. They are excellent swimmers, and they dive underwater to catch their prey. These birds can stay underwater for around 30-40 seconds and can catch fish weighing up to 200 grams. Apart from fish, they also feed on crustaceans, insects, and amphibians.
Breeding and Reproduction of Little Cormorants
Little cormorants breed during the monsoon season, from June to September. These birds build their nests on tree branches near water bodies. The female lays around 2-4 eggs, and both the male and female birds take turns to incubate the eggs. The eggs hatch after around three weeks, and the chicks fledge after 35-40 days.
Conservation Status of Little Cormorants
Little cormorants are categorized as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, habitat loss and pollution in their wetland habitats are major threats to their population.
Fun Facts about Little Cormorants
- Little cormorants are known for their excellent fishing skills.
- They have a unique way of drying their wings after swimming- by spreading them out in a crucifix position.
- These birds have a voracious appetite and can consume up to one-third of their body weight in a single day.
- Little cormorants are social birds and can be often seen roosting in groups.