PHOTOS: ‘Water turkey’ recently spotted at the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge

[Beverly Meekins]

A unique species of bird, the Anhinga, was recently spotted at Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.

The Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga) spends a lot of its time in and around water. Its long snake-like neck has produced the nickname, “snake bird” and a long, fan-like tail has produced the nickname “water turkey.”

The actual name origin is from a native tribe in Brazil. Their diet is mostly fish. Recently seen on Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, Anhingas spread their wings in the sun to dry their feathers, similar to cormorant behavior.

[Beverly Meekins]

.