Anhingas, also known as snakebirds or darters, possess distinctive physical characteristics and behaviors. Here are the key features of anhingas:
Appearance:
Long Tails : Anhingas have long tails that resemble the shape of a turkey’s tail.Dagger-like Bill and S-shaped Neck : They have a pointed, dagger-like bill and a long, S-shaped neck[1] .Flattened Body : When in flight, anhingas have a flattened appearance.Plumage : Adult males have black backs and wings with silvery to white streaks. Females and immature birds have light tan heads, necks, and breasts.Coloration : Legs, feet, and bills are yellowish-orange in color.Differentiation from Cormorants:
Tail and Bill : Anhingas have wider and longer tails compared to cormorants. Their bills are pointed, while Cormorants Size : Anhingas are larger than cormorants, with a bill length measuring about twice the length of their head.Unique Fishing Method:
Swimming and Pursuing Prey : Anhingas are excellent swimmers and rely on their webbed feet to propel themselves underwater. They pursue their prey while submerged.Spearing Prey : Anhingas catch fish by rapidly stretching their necks and spearing their prey.Handling and Swallowing : After catching fish, they bring them to the surface, handle them, and swallow them whole.Absence of Uropygial Gland:
Unlike other waterbirds such as ducks These characteristics and behaviors distinguish anhingas from other birds and contribute to their unique identity in the avian world.
