Anhinga
Anhinga anhinga

f5 @ 1/3200s, ISO:640, Nikon D3S w 500mm


\"Anhinga,\" Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. In order to dive and search for underwater prey, including fish and amphibians, the anhinga does not have waterproof feathers, (unlike ducks, which coat their feathers with oil from their uropygial gland). Because the anhinga is thus barely buoyant, it can stay below the surface more easily and for longer periods of time. If it attempts to fly while its wings are wet, the anhinga has difficulty, flapping vigorously while \"running\" on the water. As do cormorants when drying their feathers, the anhinga will stand with wings spread and feathers fanned open in a semicircular shape, resembling a male meleagrine, which led to the anhinga being referred to colloquially as the \"water turkey.\"
Ritch Grissom Memorial Wetlands, Viera, Florida
 
04/19/2016