from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Snakebird \Snake"bird`\, n. [So named from its snakelike neck.]
(Zool.)
1. Any one of four species of aquatic birds of the genus
{Anhinga} or {Plotus}. They are allied to the gannets and
cormorants, but have very long, slender, flexible necks,
and sharp bills.
[1913 Webster]
Note: The American species ({Anhinga anhinga} syn. {Plotus
anhinga}) inhabits the Southern United States and
tropical America; -- called also {darter}, and {water
turkey}. The Asiatic species ({Anhinga melanogaster})
is native of Southern Asia and the East Indies. Two
other species inhabit Africa and Australia
respectively.
[1913 Webster]
2. (Zool.) The wryneck.
[1913 Webster]