What does the Anhinga eat?

The Anhinga's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore (primarily piscivorous, eating fish)

How it forages

Primarily piscivorous. Hunts by swimming underwater, often submerging its entire body except for its head and neck. It spears fish with its sharp bill, then surfaces to toss the fish into the air and swallow it headfirst. Also consumes amphibians, aquatic insects, and crustaceans.

When it feeds

Diurnal. Most active during daylight hours for hunting and drying.

Explore the Anhinga