I'm pretty sure this bird is an Anhinga, which is similar to a Cormorant, but with a longer neck. For this reason it is sometimes called a Snakebird. Because its feathers are not waterproof like a duck, it is often seen sitting in the sun with outstretched wings allowing its feathers to dry. Waterlogged feathers make it hard to fly, but it also allows the bird to dive easily and stay under the water for long periods of time searching for fish and amphibians to eat. To see more fascinating critters from all over the world, visit Camera Critters.
Photos from Florida's Capital City (and occasionally a few from other interesting places I have been fortunate enough to visit in my travels!)
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Camera Critters
I'm pretty sure this bird is an Anhinga, which is similar to a Cormorant, but with a longer neck. For this reason it is sometimes called a Snakebird. Because its feathers are not waterproof like a duck, it is often seen sitting in the sun with outstretched wings allowing its feathers to dry. Waterlogged feathers make it hard to fly, but it also allows the bird to dive easily and stay under the water for long periods of time searching for fish and amphibians to eat. To see more fascinating critters from all over the world, visit Camera Critters.
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10 comments:
Beautiful bird there and your picture is great!
Léia
Those are ripples not rain, right? I heard you guys need rain bad. Take some of ours. Been rainy for two days now.
amazing shot and such a great angle!
happy sunday!
via camera critters.
betty
Very nice Lois! These birds always amaze me.
Ah, that's very interesting. Strange how different birds have adapted over time.
Looks like an anhinga to me too. I love it when they dry their wings. Nice pic.
I still can't tell the difference between cormorants and anhingas. When I don't know and am in Florida, I call them anhingas.
One of my favorite birds. I used to sit on our lanai in Ft. Lauderdale and watch them cavort in the canal right below! For hours!
Interesting bird, for sure.
Beautifully composed shot, Lois!
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