🦅 bird

Anhinga (Snakebird)

Anhinga anhinga

Least Concern

The 'snakebird' — swims with only its long neck above water, looking exactly like a snake. A common and iconic sight in Florida's freshwater habitats.

Size medium

Habitat freshwater

Diet Fish — spears them with its dagger-like beak underwater

Colors black, silver

Behavior

Lacks waterproof feathers, so must spread wings to dry after swimming. Named Anhinga Trail in Everglades is the best place to see them.

⚠️ Safety

Sharp beak — do not handle. Generally docile if not provoked.

Fun Facts

Their feathers lack the oil that keeps other waterbirds dry
Can stay submerged for long periods while hunting
Often seen standing with wings dramatically outstretched on branches
The Anhinga Trail in Everglades NP was named after this bird

Where to See

Blue Spring

spring

Florida's premier manatee refuge. Hundreds of manatees gather here November through March. Swimming ...

St. Johns River

river

One of the few north-flowing rivers in North America. 310 miles of diverse ecosystems from marshes t...

Everglades National Park

coastal

1.5 million acres of wetlands — the River of Grass. Home to alligators, manatees, crocodiles, panthe...

Identify This Species

Use our Species Identifier to learn how to distinguish the Anhinga (Snakebird) from similar species.