Scientific Name is Microcarbo Niger - This water bird is black
in colour called Neer Kaakai in Tamizh. The bill has its tip in the form of a
hook. I have seen them in the small islands in groups in a water body. They are
quite fast when it comes to fishing and are the best fishermen. I have noticed
this bird fishing at Kurukuthurai, Tirunelveli at close quarters.
I have heard
that they were used by fisherman to catch fish. I have read that the
Cormorant’s webbed feet, strong wings and streamlined body profile gives its
body, the needed design for underwater atheletics. At Vagaikulam near
Mannarkoil, Tirunelveli, I had an
opportunity to see them fishing in groups where they form a circle and push the
schools of fish to shallow waters.
It is a wonder to watch these gregarious
fishermen in coalition swimming in a synchronised manner. I was inspired by
their team spirit. They are excellent swimmers and dive deep. They lost the
water repelling properties of their feathers for decreasing their buyoancy in
water thereby making them pursue the fish. Therefore they cannot be in water
for long and have to come out of water after a fishing spree and dry their
wings for hours.
Therefore I have often seen them with their wings stretched
out for drying which always attracts the attention of a bird watcher. As a photographer I will never miss an
opportunity to picture this amusing scene.
- Janani L
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