lirralirra

I’m sure this Eastern Cattle Egret believes it looks resplendent but I can’t help smiling.

Yesterday I recorded another new species (number 132) for my property, it was a lone Eastern Cattle Egret, which is unusual as they are usually seen in small groups or large flocks. It wasn’t the egret pictured above, but a plain white version, with a yellow bill, yellow iris, dark legs, no plumes and a small dusting of orange on its head.

The Eastern Cattle Egret above is in its breeding plumage, wearing rich orange plumes and including the vivid reds that are only maintained for a week during the ‘courtship flush’. Their legs, irises and much of their bills are red during this brief period, and their lores are a rich purple. I was at the wetlands at Healesville Sanctuary, in February, when I saw this bird strutting around, looking like a mediaeval courtier.

The photograph is quite dramatic with the bird standing out against the dark shadows of the background. I like the way the light was falling on the bird and on the ripples as it waded through the shallow water.

Happy birding from home, Kim

~ Facebook page Kim Wormald – lirralirra
~ Facebook group  Ethical Bird Photography