Imagine The Everglades
Nature Photography by Wayne Willison
Anhinga
The Anhinga, at nearly three pounds and with a wingspan of around 28 inches, spears a fish with its pointed beak, and with a toss into the air the fish is then re-caught on the fly and swallowed head first. This bird often swims with only the head and neck visible above water, and because it is sometimes mistaken for a snake has been given the nickname, Snakebird. Like the Cormorant, it takes on water as it swims to allow for deeper diving. But unlike the Cormorant it does not have oil glands for waterproofing its feathers. This wet feather condition is why they dry perched in a tree with wings spread wide.