Oriental Darter
Anhinga melanogaster
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Suliformes · Anhingidae
About
The Oriental darter is a water bird of tropical South Asia and Southeast Asia. It has a long and slender neck with a straight, pointed bill and, like the cormorant, it hunts for fish while its body is submerged in water. It spears a fish underwater, bringing it above the surface, tossing and juggling it before swallowing the fish head first. The body remains submerged as it swims, and the slender neck alone is visible above the water, which accounts for the colloquial name of snakebird. Like the cormorants, it has wettable feathers and it is often found perched on a rock or branch with its wings held open to dry.
Fun Fact
It has a long and slender neck with a straight, pointed bill and, like the cormorant, it hunts for fish while its body is submerged in water.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found mainly in freshwater lakes and streams.
Diet
Preyed on by raptors such as Pallas's fish eagle (Haliaetus leucoryphus).
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance