Snake"bird` (?), n. [So named from its
snakelike neck.] (Zoöl.) 1. Any one
of four species of aquatic birds of the genus Anhinga or
Plotus. They are allied to the gannets and cormorants, but have
very long, slender, flexible necks, and sharp bills.
&fist; The American species (Anhinga, or Plotus, anhinga)
inhabits the Southern United States and tropical America; -- called
also darter, and water turkey. The Asiatic species
(A. melanogaster) is native of Southern Asia and the East
Indies. Two other species inhabit Africa and Australia
respectively.
2. (Zoöl.) The wryneck.
Snake"bird` (?), n. [So named from its
snakelike neck.] (Zoöl.) 1. Any one
of four species of aquatic birds of the genus Anhinga or
Plotus. They are allied to the gannets and cormorants, but have
very long, slender, flexible necks, and sharp bills.
&fist; The American species (Anhinga, or Plotus, anhinga)
inhabits the Southern United States and tropical America; -- called
also darter, and water turkey. The Asiatic species
(A. melanogaster) is native of Southern Asia and the East
Indies. Two other species inhabit Africa and Australia
respectively.
2. (Zoöl.) The wryneck.