2020 A to Z Challenge!
E is for Egret!
Photo credit to Cornell Lab of Ornithology
Among the most elegant of the herons, the slender Snowy Egret sets off
immaculate white plumage with black legs and brilliant yellow feet.
Those feet seem to play a role in stirring up or herding small aquatic
animals as the egret forages. Breeding Snowy Egrets grow filmy, curving
plumes that once fetched astronomical prices in the fashion industry,
endangering the species. Early conservationists rallied to protect
egrets by the early twentieth century, and this species is once again a
common sight in shallow coastal wetlands.
Male and female Snowy Egrets take turns incubating their eggs. As one
mate takes over for the other, it sometimes presents a stick, almost as
if passing a baton. Both parents continue caring for the young when they
hatch.
Go to this link to hear their sounds:
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Snowy_Egret/sounds
Enjoy your day!
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