Anhinga

©Ron Takahashi

Published: June 26, 2006

Ron Takahashi saw this preening Anhinga at Everglades National Park in Florida.

Takahashi used a Nikon D2H digital SLR and a 500mm f/4 lens with a 2X teleconverter to take this picture. Anhingas (Anhinga anhinga) are often seen perched on logs above water, with wings outstretched to dry wet feathers and absorb solar heat. This is a necessary behavior because this fish-hunting bird has wettable plumage, allowing it to swim with its body submerged, but the Anhinga's aquatic hunting results in the loss of body heat.

You can see the bird at these great birdwatching hotspots:

St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in Florida
Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne, Forida

Directions, maps, bird lists, and tips for more easy-to-get-to birdwatching destinations.

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