Oriental Darter

1. Bird Name
English Name: Oriental Darter
Scientific (Latin) name: Anhinga melanogaster

2. Appearance
The Oriental Darter is an impressive bird, both in size and appearance. It has a noticeably long and slender neck, a robust dark grey-black body, and a sharp, pointed bill primarily designed for catching fish, its main source of sustenance. This water bird possesses a white stripe that extends from the sides of its face down to its mostly black wings, marked with silvery-white streaks and spots. An ornamental plume of elongated feathers can be seen at the back of its head. The male has more of a glossy black color, whereas the female is characterized by a lighter, grey-brown throat and neck.

3. Size
Typically, the Oriental Darter measures between 85 to 97 cm (33.5 to 38.1 inches) in length. This impressive bird can possess a wingspan of up to 130 cm (51.2 inches). It generally weighs between 2.1 and 2.9 kg.

4. Habitat & Distribution
Oriental Darters are commonly found across the subcontinent of India, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where they inhabit freshwater swamps, slow-moving rivers, and open water bodies. Their preference is for shallow waters with nearby trees or exposed perches for resting or nesting.

5. Interesting Facts
Oriental Darters are often referred to as snakebirds, as their snake-like neck can often be seen above the surface of the water while the majority of their body is submerged. Another fascinating fact is their method of hunting: they use their bill like a harpoon to pierce and catch their prey, which is then tossed and swallowed headfirst. Oriental Darters have also played a significant role in the mythology and culture of South East Asia and are often depicted in their artwork.

6. Diet
Their diet primarily consists of fish. They also eat amphibians, water snakes, insects, and crustaceans.

7. Behavior & Sounds
Their hunting habits often see them swimming low in the water with just the neck and the bill visible: this unique behavior has earned them the nickname of ‘snakebird’. The Oriental Darter’s mating display involves intricate neck movements, a puffing out of its neck, and preening. Their sounds often include a deep croaking call or sonorous resonant ‘kaark.’

8. Conservation Status
As per International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, Oriental Darter is currently listed as “Near Threatened”. The major threat they face is habitat loss caused by the clearing of wetlands for agriculture and other development.

9. Lifespan
The Oriental Darter typically has a life span of 15-20 years in the wild. In captivity, due to consistent food availability and fewer predators, they can live up to 25 years.

10. Additional Notes
Locally, the Oriental Darter is known as Mergan Serpang in Indonesia and ไกรฉาง in Thailand. It is important to note that these birds have played a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance of their habitats by controlling the population of fish and other aquatic creatures. Humans and Oriental Darters have often clashed due to fishing, but these birds have also inspired local folklore and myths, enhancing their cultural value.