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This is a very common breeding resident found throughout the dry lowlands but is scares in lowlands and hills. The Indian Cormorant is found throughout the Indian subcontinent, Thailand and Cambodia.

The conservation of this species is regarded as “Least Concerned” (National Red List 2012).

This is a species protected under the Fauna & Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No.22 of 2009.

I have observed these birds teaming up with other water birds such as Little Cormorants and Spot-billed Pelicans to drive Sholes of fish towards the shore enabling them to be caught easily. In shallow pools Painted Storks also join to form such a mixed flock forming a symbiotic relationship. I have observed this species through out the lowlands including the water bodies within the city of Colombo. In the dry zone large flocks of them can be observed flying in the typical V formation to create less air resistance from one tank to another. The introduction of fast breeding exotic fresh water fish species such as Tilapia to most of the fresh water tanks have benefited these birds in having greater access to food. The highest altitude at which I have recorded this species so far has been at Teldeniya at 420 meters.

This is a very common species in Wilpattu and can be seen at most villu’s and other water bodies.