Facts about the African Darter (Anhinga rufa)
African Darter is also commonly known as “snake bird”, because the pace at which it swims, very very low, with only its head and neck above the water. African Darter frequents fresh and brackish waters, fringed with vegetation. It performs local migrations according to the rainfalls.
African Darter is often seen perched on bare branches or stumps above the water. It needs to dry its plumage after fishing with wings outstretched. If alarmed, it drops vertically into the water.
African Darter dives for long periods, to search for aquatic preys. It propels itself with its webbed feet. It spears the fish in the flank, and brings it to the surface, where it tosses it into the air, catches it with the bill and swallows it headfirst. African Darter feeds mainly on fish, but they also prey on amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates.
African Darter is mainly silent, but at the nest, it utters a harsh croak. This bird nests and roosts with other species, such as Egrets, Herons, and Cormorants. Breeding season is prolonged and variable, according to the rainfalls. The nest is located in trees, reeds or bushes, over water. It is made with sticks and reeds and lined with fine materials. Male brings twigs to female, and she builds the nest. Female lays 3 to 5 pale green eggs. Incubation lasts about 25 to 30 days, by both parents, with eggs placed on the top of the large webbed feet. Chicks hatch altricial and covered with white down in two days. Both parents feed and brood them. Young fledge at about 5 weeks, and they are fed two weeks more by their parents. They reach their sexual maturity at two years. Longevity is up to 16 years.
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