Video: Anhinga swimming uderwater. When the anhinga wants to swim under water, with just his head and neck showing, he can let the air out of his air sacs and press his feathers tight against his body to squeeze the air out of them. It doesn’t have the glands that secrete wax and it doesn’t preen like other waterbirds. It may also be called the Snake Bird, Water Turkey or even the North American Darter. The A. anhinga can be seen basking for long a period in the sun to dry its feathers, so that the body temperature of the A. anhinga is maintained (Hennemann 1982). Anhinga anhinga prefers freshwater and coastal aquatic habitats that include shrub or tree-covered islands or shores; these habitats include lakes, marshes, swamps, mangrove swamps, shallow coastal bays, and lagoons. Seen in waterways, with only their beak pointed skyward and body … Continue reading Meet The Amazing Anhinga Anhingas hunt while swimming underwater or at the water’s surface. View entire discussion (7 comments) The Anhingas (Anhinga anhinga) are found in the warmer parts of the Americas.They are members of the darter family and are related to pelicans and cormorants.. Anhingas are unusual birds. Because the anhinga is barely buoyant, it can stay below the … Anhinga, also known as the Water-Turkey (for its swimming habits and broad tail) or Snake-Bird (because it looks like a snake when it swims with its head out of the water). Their fishing methods understandingly show why they are often referred to as the “snake bird”. Certainly looks like a turkey here! Instead, the wet feathers help them sink and swim underwater. Water-Turkey (Anhinga) Going Underwater. They spear them while swimming underwater then stick their neck out of the water vertically and swallow the fish. Here is how Wikipedia describes the unique Anhinga… Webcams and videos are hosted by third parties. Because they aren’t fast swimmers, they will usually sit and wait for a fish, then rapidly throw the fish in the air and swallow it. Anhinga swimming underwater. The hunt by swimming underwater propelled by their large webbed feet. These water birds are also commonly referred to as Snakebirds, Darters, Water Crows, American Darters or Water Turkeys.. When he wants to swim on top of the water he can fill his air sacs and raise his … Anhinga are common here and fascinating to watch catching and eating fish. Great swimmers and adept hunters, Anhingas spend a lot of time underwater. The anhinga doesn’t have waterproof feathers. Anhinga Anhinga is the scientific name for this diving bird commonly found on Hilton Head Island. Other aquatic animals, such as crayfish, snakes, and small turtles are also on the menu, depending on availability. In exchange, you may periodically see 30-second advertisements. BirdNote does not endorse any of the products, services, or causes on third-party pages. The word "anhinga" is derived from the Brazilian Tupi language and means devil bird or snake bird. The anhinga is superbly adapted for swimming underwater. Learn why this sleek American darter is also referred to as a Snake Bird. Anhingas prey on fish, which they often spear with their long pointed beak. For more about Anhingas, see my Set, 'Anhingas'. Unlike other water birds with feathers coated with oils, repelling water and keeping the birds buoyant and dry, an anhinga’s feathers are not coated, and it becomes wet as it swims in the water. You’ve no doubt seen their unmistakable silhouette; those outstretched wings and long, graceful neck belong to the Anhinga. After staying underwater for very lengthy periods of time during foraging the A. anhinga spreads its wings and feathers.