Anhinga (Anhinga anhinga) - 17Jun2016 & 05Sep2017

The Anhinga, also known as Snake-Bird or Water-Turkey is pretty common in Southeastern North Carolina.  It's novelty has somewhat worn off since I have moved here 10 plus year ago.  However, I do remember being in awe when I first saw this bird swimming with only it's snake-like head sticking out of the water.  There is plenty of these in Wilmington, but the best place to see them up close is Twin Lakes in Sunset Beach where I saw this one.  The breeding plumaged males can be quite colorful so I will have to get some better pics in the future.

Here is one from Burnt Mill Creek in Wilmington.