LITTLE PIED CORMORANT

The Little Pied Cormorant is a charming and distinctive waterbird that graces the waterways of Australia. These birds are a common sight, often seen perched with their wings outstretched, basking in the sun to dry their feathers after a dive.

The Little Pied Cormorant is relatively small compared to other cormorants. It has a striking appearance with its white and black plumage, a sharp hooked bill, and webbed feet which are excellent for swimming. When you spot one, you’ll notice its white underparts contrasting beautifully against its black back, wings, and tail.

In Australia, these birds are widespread and adaptable, found in both coastal and inland waters. They inhabit estuaries, rivers, lakes, and even well-constructed urban wetlands. Their distribution spans across the continent, from the bustling coasts of Sydney to the serene billabongs of the Northern Territory.

Little Pied Cormorants are expert fishers. They dive underwater to hunt for fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Their diet is quite varied, and they have been known to eat almost anything they can catch and swallow.

These cormorants breed in colonies, often with other waterbirds. They construct their nests from sticks and line them with grass, which they place in trees or on sheltered cliffs near water. A typical clutch consists of 3 to 5 pale blue eggs.

One of the most iconic behaviours of the Little Pied Cormorant is their post-feeding ritual. After diving, their feathers get soaked because they lack the oil glands that many other waterbirds have to waterproof their plumage. So, they are often seen perching with wings outstretched to dry off in the sun, a sight that is both picturesque and practical.

Currently, the Little Pied Cormorant is not considered to be at risk. It benefits from a broad distribution and large population. However, like all wildlife, it faces challenges such as habitat destruction and pollution.

To Indigenous Australians, the Little Pied Cormorant, like many native animals, holds a place in their rich tapestry of cultural stories and practices, often symbolising resourcefulness and adaptability.

The Little Pied Cormorant is a testament to the diversity and resilience of Australia’s avian life. As they glide through the waters or stand sentinel along the banks, they remind us of the intricate web of ecosystems that sustain our natural world. It’s our shared responsibility to ensure that these birds, and the environments they inhabit, are preserved for future generations to admire and study.