Darters - Family Overview

Darters are large aquatic birds belonging to the family Anhingidae. They are characterised by long necks, slender pointed bills, and a distinctive swimming posture in which the body is often submerged with only the neck visible.

Members of this family inhabit freshwater lakes, rivers, reservoirs, and wetlands. They feed primarily on fish, which are caught underwater by spearing with the bill after prolonged swimming and diving.

In the Indian subcontinent, darters are widespread in suitable freshwater habitats. They are often seen perched with wings spread to dry after feeding, as their plumage is less waterproof than that of many other waterbirds.

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