Page 14 - Cornwall Issue 1 2025

THE BIG PICTURE

THE AFRICAN DARTER

Afr. Slanghalsvoel
The African Darter is a unique and fascinating water bird found
in sub-Saharan Africa. Its elongated, slender neck and sharp,
spear-like beak are perfectly adapted for its aquatic lifestyle.

The photograph captures a remarkable moment in the African
Darter’s hunting behaviour. The bird has successfully speared a
small fish with its beak and is now performing a characteristic
manoeuvre – flipping the fish into the air before swallowing it.
This unique ability allows the African Darter to swallow it head-
first more easily.

African Darters are expert fishers. They spend a considerable
amount of time submerged under water, using their keen
eyesight to spot prey. Once they locate a fish, they propel them-
selves swiftly through the water with the aid of their webbed
feet and pursue their target with remarkable agility.

12 Cornwall View • Issue 1 2025