Anhinga [Anhinga anhinga]
Description
The Anhinga, also known as the American darter, is a water bird of the warmer parts of the Americas. It has a long and slender neck with a pointed bill, and webbed feet. Males have a black and glossy plumage with white streaks on the wings and tail, while females have a pale head, neck, and upper chest. The Anhinga swims with only the neck above water. After diving for food, it needs to dry its wings before it can fly again. It is often seen standing with its wings spread to dry.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Birds
Aves
|
| Order |
Cormorants and Shags
Suliformes
|
| Family |
Anhingas or Snakebirds
Anhingidae
|
| Genus |
Anhinga
Anhinga
|