#3 Common Loon vs. #14 Anhinga

#3 - Common Loon

• Common Loons are flightless for a few weeks after they lose all of their wing feathers at the same time.


• Loons occasionally land on wet roadways and become stranded because they need a large amount of open water to be able to takeoff.


• Common Loons can dive up to 200 feet under the water.


• Loons eyes can focus both in the air and in the water.


• Loon chicks ride on their parents backs until they can fly at approximately 11 weeks of age.

For more information on Common Loons click here.

#14 - Anhinga

• Anhingas must spread their wings and dry themselves in the sun after swimming because they do not have oil glands for waterproofing as many other waterbirds do.


• Anhingas typically swim with only their neck and head out of the water while the rest of their body is submerged beneath the surface.


• Anhingas spear fish with their long bills.


• Anhingas are often seen soaring high in the air. They are great fliers and can go for long distances without having to flap their wings.


• The Anhinga is also known as the Water-Turkey because of its large wide turkey like tail.

For more information on Anhingas click here.