Bay Photos by Donna

.

The Anhinga is a waterbird found in the southeast United States.

However, unlike most waterbirds, the Anhinga doesn’t have waterproof feathers. 

But this isn’t a disadvantage for them.  Anhingas’ wet feathers and dense bones help them slowly submerge their bodies under the water so they can stalk fish with their dagger-like bill.

.

Anhinga

.

Anhinga drying its feathers

.

Anhingas have two nicknames, “water turkey” for its turkey-like tail and “snake bird” for its long, snake-like neck, both of which they hold partially out of the water while swimming with the rest of their body partly or mostly submerged.

.

Anhinga swimming (nicknamed “water turkey” or “snake bird”)

.

Anhinga swimming (nicknamed “water turkey” or “snake bird”)

.

How about a few head-shots? 

Anhinga

.

Anhinga

.

Anhinga

.

Did you notice the Anhinga’s beautiful maroon-red eye?

.

Anhinga

.

How about a close-up of their feet?

.

Anhinga’s golden feet

.

Anhinga preening

.

I hope you enjoyed getting up close and personal with the Anhinga!

.

Anhinga looking happy!

.