Exsiccate

A male Australian Darter at Perth Zoo, Western Australia. He just sprang up out of the depths of the water and stood there, sunning his wings.

See also: Preen

The Australian Darter is a water bird which dives under water and draws fish to its long, spear-like beak with its tail and wings. Their feathers fill with water when diving to allow for decreased buoyancy, but are not waterproof, so Darters are often seen sunning themselves above water with wings spread. The Australian Darter can spend up to a minute underwater and eat insects and small fish during that time, bringing larger prey such as tortoises or large fish to the surface for consumption. The Australian Darter coined the term 'snake bird' due to its long, flexible neck, and its resemblance to a snake when swimming with just its head and neck above water. Darters are solitary birds which can travel long distances outside the breeding season.