The little cormorant (Microcarbo niger) is a small, soot-black waterbird common across the wetlands of the Indian Subcontinent. It is distinguished from its larger relatives by its shorter bill, rectangular-shaped head, and lack of a yellow gular pouch. During the breeding season, adults develop a silvery-white streaking on the head and a small crest. The little cormorant is about 50 cm long and only slightly smaller than the Indian cormorant (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis).