PELICANIFORMES of The World
The Pelecaniformes order is in a state of flux. The order was originally defined to include birds that have feet with four web toes. Most members also have non functional nostril slits. They feed on fish or similar marine life. However, many of these species have obtained these features by convergemt evolution and not because of common ancestory. At least one new order will probably be formed.
Order disputed Family Anhingidae - 1 genus
Anhingas and cormorants are extremely similar as regards their body and leg skeletons. But unlike the cormorants, anhingas typically inhabit fresh water lakes, rivers, marshes, swamps, and are less often found near salt water. They have completely webbed feet, and their legs are short and set far back on the body. The males have black and dark brown plumage, a short erectile crest on the nape and a larger bill than the female. The females have a much paler plumage, and are a bit larger overall.
Genus Anhinga
Anhinga Anhinga anhinga Found: The Americas
Photographed by: 1) Dick Daniels - Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Sanibel Island, Florida
2, 3) Dick - Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge 4, 5) Dick - Jacksonville, Florida
Darter, African Anhinga rufa Found: Africa
Photographed by: 1) Arno Meintjes 2) Stickpen - San Diego Zoo, California 3) Hans Hillewaert - Livingstone, Zambia
Darter, Australasian Anhinga novaehollandiae Found: Australia, New Zealand
Photographed by: 1, 2) Scarlet23 - Perth Zoo, Western Australia 3) Toby Hudson 4) Dick Daniels - Manly, Australia 5) Dick - Manly
All photos on this site are available for general use. Please credit the photographer. Some images have additional constraints such as no commercial use or no modifications. Click the photo credit link for details. Dick Daniels, webmaster.