Wildlife

Anhinga in Big Bend National Park

Wildlife
Anhinga

The anhinga is a remarkable water bird that pursues fish by diving deep underwater, using its sharp, slender beak to spear prey with precision. Their long, slender neck appears snake-like when swimming—only the neck shows above water. These birds regularly perch on branches above water to dry their feathers, and their presence is a signature feature of southeastern wetland ecosystems.

Quick facts

Scientific Name
Anhinga anhinga
Species Type
Bird
Conservation Status
Stable
Identifying Features
Long, slender neck that appears distinctly snake-like when swimming (only the neck shows above water). Sharp, pointed beak adapted for spearing fish. Dark plumage when wet; pale wing patches visible when drying feathers. Unique lack of waterproof feathers distinguishes them from most other water birds.

Species profile

Scientific Name
Anhinga anhinga
Species Type
Bird
Conservation Status
Stable
Identifying Features
Long, slender neck that appears distinctly snake-like when swimming (only the neck shows above water). Sharp, pointed beak adapted for spearing fish. Dark plumage when wet; pale wing patches visible when drying feathers. Unique lack of waterproof feathers distinguishes them from most other water birds.

Where & when to look

Where To See
  • Big Bend National Park: Rio Grande and desert wetland areas
  • Biscayne National Park: Shallow bays and mangrove environments
  • Congaree National Park: Bottomland forest, cypress swamps, and river channels
  • Dry Tortugas National Park: Shallow marine waters and cays
  • Everglades National Park: Marshes, sloughs, and coastal wetlands
Best Viewing Times
Early morning and late afternoon when water conditions are calm and fish activity peaks.
Sighting Frequency
Common in suitable habitat; regular sightings in appropriate wetland areas year-round.
Habitat Description
Freshwater and brackish wetlands, including marshes, swamps, river systems, and coastal waters. Prefer shallow areas with abundant fish populations and perches for drying. Found in warmer regions where water remains open year-round.
Activity Pattern
Diurnal—most active during daylight hours, with peaks at dawn and dusk.
Migration Patterns
Year-round residents in southern parks; do not migrate but may shift locally with seasonal water-level changes.
Hibernation Info
Do not hibernate; remain active year-round in warm southern climates.

Wildlife safety

Dangerous
0
Viewing Distance Required
25 yards from water's edge or perched birds.
Safety Precautions
Maintain 25-yard distance. Do not feed or attempt to approach. Observe from designated viewing areas using binoculars.
If Encountered
Remain calm and back away slowly if the bird becomes alarmed. Do not chase, corner, or make sudden movements.
Never Feed Approach
1
Report Sightings
1
How To Report
Report sightings to park visitor centers or through official park wildlife reporting systems. Photo documentation with date and location helps park biologists track populations across parks.

Photography & conservation

Best Photo Locations
Perched birds on branches extending over water in early morning light. Diving sequences photographed from water-level viewing platforms with telephoto lens from safe distance.
Recommended Equipment
Binoculars are essential for viewing behavior and details. A telephoto lens (minimum 200mm) helps capture diving behavior and perching details from safe, non-intrusive distance.
Ethical Photography
Use telephoto lens to photograph from distance—never approach nesting birds. Do not use flash photography. Do not disturb birds to create better shot opportunities.
Conservation Threats
Wetland loss and habitat degradation reduce available feeding and breeding areas. Water pollution and chemical contamination affect water quality and prey populations. Climate-driven changes to water levels impact breeding success.
Protection Efforts
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. National parks preserve critical wetland habitat supporting stable populations. Park management maintains water quality and habitat conditions.
How Visitors Help
Stay on designated paths to protect wetland vegetation. Reduce plastic use to prevent ingestion by wildlife. Report pollution or habitat damage to rangers. Participate in park-based bird monitoring when opportunities arise.

Viewing advice

Best Time To Visit
Year-round, with most visible activity during warmer months and early morning hours when water is calm.
Viewing Tips
  • Look for them standing on logs, branches, or rocks with wings spread—they dry their feathers regularly after swimming.
  • Early morning visits increase chances of observing active hunting and diving behavior.
  • Scan wetland edges where water and vegetation intersect for concentrated sightings.
  • Listen for distinctive vocalizations, particularly during breeding season and territorial disputes.
Tips Advice
  • Look for them perched on branches extending into water with wings spread to dry.
  • Scan shallow water areas, cypress swamps, and river channels early in the day.
  • Patient observation near marshes and wetland edges yields best sightings.
  • Use binoculars to watch their diving technique and spearing behavior from safe distance.
Accessibility
Visible from car pullouts near water features. Wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms available at several park visitor centers and scenic overlooks.
Family Friendly Notes
Excellent for family wildlife viewing—safe distance, non-aggressive, active during normal visiting hours. Children enjoy watching distinctive diving behavior and unique wing-drying posture.

More details

Diet
Fish and small aquatic prey, caught by diving and spearing with their pointed beak.
Recent Sightings
Common year-round in suitable wetland habitat across all five parks. Sightings are regular and consistent where water conditions support fish populations.

Frequently asked questions

Which national parks can you see Anhinga in?

Anhingas are confirmed in five major U.S. national parks: Big Bend National Park (Texas), Biscayne National Park (Florida), Congaree National Park (South Carolina), Dry Tortugas National Park (Florida), and Everglades National Park (Florida).

Why do anhingas spread their wings so much?

Unlike most water birds, anhingas lack waterproof plumage. They spread their wings to air-dry after swimming and diving, which helps maintain feather integrity and prevents waterlogging.

How do anhingas hunt their prey?

They dive underwater and use their sharp, pointed beak to spear fish and small aquatic prey. Their slender body shape makes them excellent underwater hunters with remarkable agility.

Is it safe to get close to an anhinga?

No. Maintain at least 25 yards distance. These are wild birds that should never be approached or fed, and they will flee if disturbed.

What is the best time to see anhingas?

Early morning and late afternoon offer peak activity. Anhingas are present year-round in southern parks, making them accessible throughout the seasons.

Can I feed anhingas at national parks?

Never. Feeding wild birds disrupts their natural behavior, causes dependency, and can cause harm. Let them hunt and forage naturally.

What are other names for the anhinga?

They are sometimes called darters, American darters, snakebirds, or water turkeys. 'Anhinga' comes from the Tupi language meaning 'devil bird' or 'snake bird.'

Bald Eagle

Recovery champion of the skies — spot the white head and tail hunting fish over open water. Keep your distance!

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.