Embedded Files
The Australasian Darter (Anhinga novaehollandiae) is a large waterbird locally known as the Snake Bird. There are a couple of iconic positions in which we see the Darter and one is as it swims under water with just its long neck and bill above water. Hence the name, Snake Bird.Â
The Darter is widespread across Australia, found in most bodies of water - or close by. It is absent from Tasmania but it range extends into Papua New Guinea with occasional sightings in eastern Indonesia and northern New Zealand.
The male and female birds have different plumages as seen on the left. The female is above and is a very pale brown through the breast and neck. The back graduates to a darker brown down the body.
The male is darker all over and it has bronze markings on the back.
Male Darter
Female Darter
Birds can also be quite variable in plumage, of course, as they moult, come into breeding or just mature. This bird on the right is the most unusual coloring I have ever seen. Not unattractive though!
I think this is a juvenile moulting into adult male plumage.
The second position that we usually see Darter in is when they are drying their wings. This is because they do not have oils that protect their feathers as other waterbirds do (think 'water off a duck's back'). This is needed so that they can dive and swim under water. Hence, they need to dry their wings out after being in the water.
I think the light just caught this bird on the neck and highlights the rufous patch. This is a male bird and when it has a bright red neck patch, it indicates he is ready to attract a mate and breed. The birds look quite startling when this is the case.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse