Birds Around Me

The Snakebird: Oriental darter (Anhinga melanogaster) पनवा, तिरंदाज, सर्पपक्षी  For amateur birders, few species are as intriguing as the snakebird, also known as the darter or anhinga. Its unusual hunting style, striking plumage, and snake-like silhouette make it a bird worth learning about and spotting in the wild.  Oriental darter (Anhinga melanogaster)  पनवा, तिरंदाज, सर्पपक्षी Jabalpur, December 2024 The snakebird’s long, slender neck and sharp, pointed bill are perfectly adapted for fishing. Unlike ducks or herons, it swims with its body submerged, leaving only its neck visible above the water. This gives it the appearance of a snake gliding across the surface—hence the name. When hunting, it spears fish underwater, then brings them above the surface, tossing and juggling them before swallowing headfirst. Watching this process is a highlight for any birder. Like cormorants, snakebirds have wettable feathers that allow them to dive easily but prevent them fro...