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The African darter is a waterbird native to sub-Saharan Africa, known for its long neck and ability to dive and hunt fish. It is also called a "snakebird" because it swims with only its S-shaped neck and head visible above the water. The African darter's specialized feathers allow it to remain submerged, and it can immediately take flight after emerging from the water.
Physical characteristics
Size: They range from about 80 to 95 cm long and weigh 1 to 1.4 kg.
Plumage: Adult males are glossy black with a rusty-orange neck and a white stripe from the eye down the side of the neck. Females and juveniles are duller brown.
Bill: They have a long, dagger-like bill with tiny, backward-pointing notches to help hold onto prey.
Feet: Their webbed feet have four toes and are set far back on their body, making them excellent swimmers but clumsy on land.
