How to Eat a Fish (if you’re an Anhinga)

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Dyeyo got an extra Father’s Day gift today when this Anhinga posed for us at the Circle B Bar Reserve.  The Anhinga surfaced with a catfish and proceeded to eat it, to the delight of the Birdie Paparazzi!  (Hey, Squirt, it’s a catfish!)

So if you’ve never swallowed a fish whole before, here’s how to do it:

First you have to spear the fish.  This includes a nice dive into the water.

Anhinga eating catfish

Anhinga eating catfish

Then you beat the fish into submission:

Anhinga eating catfish

Anhinga eating catfish

Then you toss the fish into the air and catch it in your beak.  Note: if you’re uncomfortable about your prey looking at you while you eat it, then this kind of dining may not be for you.

Anhinga eating catfish

Anhinga eating catfish

Next you tip your head back to allow the fish to slide down your throat.

Anhinga eating catfish

Anhinga eating catfish

Open really wide!

Anhinga eating catfish

Anhinga eating catfish

Finally, after a nice gulp, sit there for a minute to let things settle.  Then dive into the water and start fishing again!

Anhinga eating catfish

Anhinga eating catfish

Want to learn more about nature photography at Circle B Bar Reserve?

Check out my Circle B Bar Reserve page with more information about the location, map, website, photography tips, etc. It is archived by date so you can see my images from previous visits. Maybe you'll be inspired for your own trip!

Planning a trip to Florida? Don't miss my Central Florida Bird Photography Locations reference guide!