Anhingidae and cormorants are extremely similar as regards their body and leg skeletons. But unlike the cormorants, Anhingidae typically inhabit fresh water lakes, rivers, marshes, swamps, and are less often found near salt water. They favor tropical environments. Anhingas have a more pointed bill than cormorants which allows them to spear fish. They have completely webbed feet, and their legs are short and set far back on the body. The males have black and dark brown plumage, a short erectile crest on the nape and a larger bill than the female. The females have a much paler plumage, and are a bit larger overall.

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