Joan and Dan's Birding Blog: Reddish Egret

Today's featured feathered friend is the Reddish Egret, the rarest of North America's herons. An active wader, it stalks it's prey in shallow water by frequently running. Then, when in position to spear a fish, it uses the shadow of its wings to reduce glare on the water. This spirited technique results in a fascinating dance. We have witnessed the "Dance of the Reddish Egret", many times. To view a video, click here ---> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IpLxr9dRVM .

Reddish Egrets are year-round residents of the Gulf Coast states, Central America, the Caribbean and parts of Mexico. They are long-legged, long-necked herons with shaggy reddish-brown heads and necks. Their bodies and wings are grayish-blue and they have dark legs. Males and females are similar in appearance, although males are slightly larger. Adults have a distinctive pinkish bill with a black tip. In breeding plumage the facial skin becomes bright blue and the pink bill becomes almost fluorescent. Reddish Egrets are around 30 inches in length, weigh nearly 2 pounds and have a wingspan of about 4 feet. An all-white version (white morph) can also be found, but they are very rare. It too has the distinctive pink bill.

Reddish Egrets were hunted for their plumes in the past, which is now illegal. It is estimated that there are only 2000 nesting pairs remaining in the U.S. Their conservation status is Near Threatened. Enjoy these photos of the entertaining Reddish Egret.....tweet.....tweet!!