Heron ID, Florida (1 Viewer)

[Daddylion]

I am guessing this is either Little Blue or Reddish. Seen at Sanibell Island.

Thanks!

 

[birderbf]

The first is an adult Little Blue (reddish has a more pink and black beak, and the namesake throat color). The second is an immature... the only type of heron likely to be seen in the US with a combo of white with patchy blue. Also note the entirely green legs.

 

[Dave B Smith]

Also, if you watch the birds feed for a little while, you'll be able to distinguish them on that alone. The Reddish Egret does a rather frantic dance scaring up prey for its meal.

 

[MLoyko]

Agreed on Little Blue Heron. Here is one for comparison.

 

[Daddylion]

Thanks! I was suprised at how small the little blue and tri-colored herons as well as the snowy egrets were.

Ok, one description. I saw a large heron flying over thee road, completely dark colored, no markings. Any ideas?

 

[MLoyko]

Was it flying with it's neck held tucked in like a heron or straight out. Tucked in I would guess Great Blue heron if not maybe Sandhill Crane even though they are a little lighter (depending on where the sun was it could look darker).

 

[Daddylion]

Thanks MLoyko. It had its head tucked in so it was probably a GBH.

 

[rjackb]

The first photo is of a Little Blue Heron in breeding plumage. The second could be of a "1st spring" Little Blue Heron changing from white to blue--and judging by its size (in comparison to the mangrove leaves), I think it probably is. Little Blues are quite small while Great Blues are quite large.

 

[rjackb]

Ok, one description. I saw a large heron flying over thee road, completely dark colored, no markings. Any ideas?

Double-crested Cormorant, maybe?

 

[Daddylion]

Double-crested Cormorant, maybe?

I suppose it could be. I guess the view wasn't good enough for positive identification. But thanks anyway, guys!

 

[MLoyko]

The first photo is of a Little Blue Heron in breeding plumage. The second could be of a "1st spring" Little Blue Heron changing from white to blue--and judging by its size (in comparison to the mangrove leaves), I think it probably is. Little Blues are quite small while Great Blues are quite large.

I know, I was talking about the description (if that was directed toward what I said, if not never mind) :t: