Anhingidae

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Anhingidae (darters; class Aves, order Pelecaniformes) A family of long-necked birds that have an elongated body, long, narrow, pointed bill, and long, stiff tail. They are totipalmate. The food consists mainly of fish, caught under water, and darters often swim with only the head and neck above water. These birds are excellent fliers, and are migratory in some areas. They inhabit the wooded shores of lakes and rivers, breeding colonially in trees. There is one genus, Anhinga, with four species, often considered to be one, found in all the major continents except Europe.

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