Great Egret
Some of my favorite birds to watch are in the Heron and Egret family. With their elegant long necks, they are fascinating to watch as they use such stealth while they fish.
As a fishing bird, they are quite skittish. They have the eye of an eagle, and the slightest bit of movement, even far away sets off their alarms.
While in St. Augustine, Florida I was able to enjoy a nice variety of species that weren’t quite as timid. At the St. Augustine Alligator Farm the herons and egrets that live there are more accustomed to people and stride along the alligators.
There is an alligator marsh at the zoo that is well know amongst bird photographers. In the early spring, many herons, egrets, spoonbills and even woodstorks come and nest to raise their families. In the beginning of December though, the marsh is quiet with very few birds.
Great Blue Heron
I was fortunate as I was able to see one of each species along the marsh, and all we need is one to enjoy. Even a small Green heron was found strolling along the gator pens looking for a fish to dine on.
Green Heron
Herons and egrets can also be found in marshy areas, and on the beaches. Like this soft Snowy Egret enjoying the morning along the waterways and the gentle surf.
The only one not seen on this trip was a Reddish Egret which can be found on Merritt Island during early December. Hope you enjoyed these Egrets and Herons as much as I do.
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 
Those wing spans too! wow! :O
I certainly would not want to be hit by one of their wings for certain.
Nor I for sure 😀
Excellent series, Em.
Thank you so much.
Amazing photos…It must have been such great fun to watch them.
You are too kind Charlie. As you can imagine, I love watching the birds.
Great variety Emily. I particularly like the egret in flight.
You are so sweet. I love it too. Such majesty.
Ah Emily. These are brilliant captures – they allow us to experience the full joy of their majestic presence. Thank you!
I can’t get enough. Who knew I’d become a bird lady?
Lovely captures of my favorite birds! I have also not see a Reddish Egret for a few weeks, but expect them to reappear soon.
Can’t happen soon enough right? While you wait for Reddish egrets, I await for ducks. 🙂
I love egrets. There is a couple living by large pond behind our house and I could stare at them forever. I love that tri-coloured heron too. Great photos! 🙂
Oh lucky you ! I hope you’re doing well Fatima. I’ve been so bad about keeping in touch with people. Always on the move. Feel bad about it. Did you have a nice holiday?
Yes, thanks. Just got back today. Loads to blog about!!! I know what you mean about keeping in touch with people when on the move: I have the same problem as WiFi is not always available and phone charges are extortionate when abroad! Wishing you a very happy 2016. 💗
Beautiful shots, Emily. 🙂 Happy New Year to you. xx
Happy New Year to you too Sylvia. It’s been quite a few years for us hasn’t it? Hard to imagine you and I are still blogging along. 😉
Thanks, Emily. Yes, it’s been a long time. 🙂