Darter

Meet the Darter, sometimes called the Snakebird because of their long neck and quick striking action when catching prey.

Scientific Name: Anhinga melanogaster

Quite a large water bird – body length approx. 85 – 90cm with a wing span of up to 1.2m.

The Darter hunts for its prey underwater using a spearing action. It floats very low on the water surface, often with its body submerged and only the head and neck visible.

Mostly found in wetlands where the water has a depth of at least half a metre, with well vegetated banks and trees and logs.

Common reason for coming into care is fishing line entanglement and fishing hook damage… the solution? Please always dispose of fishing line correctly.