Masked Booby vs Anhinga

In short

The Masked Booby and Anhinga are both large, water-associated birds, but they differ significantly in appearance and behavior. The Masked Booby is a pelagic seabird with a predominantly white body and black flight feathers, while the Anhinga is a freshwater bird with a distinctive long neck and dark plumage, often seen drying its wings.

Identification tips

1. Location: Masked Boobies are found in marine environments, while Anhingas are in freshwater. 2. Neck and Posture: Anhingas have a long, snake-like neck often visible when swimming. 3. Plumage: Look for the white body and black wings of the Masked Booby versus the dark, glossy plumage of the Anhinga. 4. Behavior: Note the diving behavior of the Masked Booby compared to the Anhinga's wing-drying posture.

Size

The Masked Booby is generally larger and more robust than the Anhinga.

Plumage

Masked Boobies have a striking white body with black on the wings and tail, and a yellowish bill. Anhingas have dark plumage with a glossy sheen, a long, snake-like neck, and a pointed bill.

Behaviour

Masked Boobies are often seen flying over open ocean, diving for fish. Anhingas are more often seen in freshwater environments, swimming with only their neck above water and drying their wings on perches.

Habitat

Masked Boobies inhabit open ocean and are often found on remote islands. Anhingas prefer freshwater habitats like lakes and rivers, often near wooded areas.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature between these species in the field.