Anhinga

This Anhinga looks surprised, but actually, he's preening. He was just about to grab his feathers on his lower neck.

Anhingas (Anhinga anhinga), soar often resembling a flying cross. They rest in trees or on sticks over water; holding their wings out to dry because they lack oil glands for water-proofing.

Anhingas are caled "snakebirds" for their habit of swimming with just their neck and head showing above the water. They stab fish in the side, swim to a log to bang it against the log to kill it, then flip it up to swallow head first.

Anhingas nest in small colonies, often with cormorants and herons. They can be found in freshwater marshes, swamps and rivers and are resident in Florida.

I found him while on a meetup with my Meetup Group. You can see more photos from this meetup by checking out this link: Florida State Photography Meetup Group,

I organize this group and we have 166 members. We go out a minimum of twice a month (most of the time more) to photograph events, nature (at nature parks), architecture, etc. Usually, there is an average of 12 people that go out together. As a matter of fact, tonight, 8 of us are going out to photograph the lunar eclipse. It ought to be fun and challenging. By going out with a group, we can share tips and techniques and learn from one another. It's one way to feel safe in this day an age, when it could be dangerous to go out alone to desolate areas with all our photo gear. If you live in the Tampa Bay area, and are interested in photography, or would like to learn to take better photos--or just want to have fun, check out the link and consider joining us. Everyone at every skill level is welcome.

If you've enjoyed this post, and would like to see more of my work, check out my website at Loyce Hood Photo.