One of the birds that I really wanted to see in Florida was the Reddish Egret. I was hoping to get at least a glimpse of its very animated fishing tactics. They will run, jump, spin and pluck a fish out of the shallow water. I did get to see this bird multiple times, with a couple of really awesome photo ops. The bird was a bit difficult to photograph since it was constantly in motion, but I was able to get many satisfying photos! I will warn you that this post is going to be photo-heavy. I took so many photos of this bird and I cannot narrow down which ones I want to share.
The first Reddish Egret we saw was at Merritt Island at Shiloh Marsh. This was an evening visit after birding at Orlando Wetlands all day. The lighting was behind our subject, but it was great get our life bird as soon as we arrived at the coast.
Reddish Egret running in the water
The next time we would see this bird was probably the best experience we could ever ask for. It was our first time driving Blackpoint Wildlife Drive at Merritt Island. We had no idea what to expect and where to find the good birds. We quickly found where the key spot to photograph in the morning was. The water was calm, the sun was at our backs and the birds were cooperative. We watched as a Reddish Egret fished right in front of us.
Using its wings to reduce glare in the water
Running across the water
Grabbing a fish
Down the hatch!
Looking for fish
Grabbing nothing but water
Going after a dragonfly
Bowing down to get a fish
A successful catch
Other birds caught our attention when the Egret left, but it soon returned for more fun.
Coming back close to us
Searching in perfect light
Running with wings spread open
Running left
Running right
About to pounce
Looking for some fish
Running with wings open
Shielding the sun
Stopping for a moment
I never thought I would experience that – especially in the perfect light with the perfect reflections. It was magical!
Later on that day, we came across another Egret. We were able to get fairly close in a blind. In fact, the bird came up really close to the window that I was photographing from.
Right outside the blind window
Looking for fish
Got one!
The next morning, we went right to the calm pool where we watched the egret at sunrise. This time, a Tricolored Heron stole the show, but a younger Egret did show up. This one was not as animated as the adult.
Young Reddish Egret
We did, however, find an adult down the road who let us watch him for a few minutes before taking off.
Rousing feathers
Rousing Feathers
Taking off
The bird sill “pops” in the distance
Our final encounter with the bird was at Gator Creek on our last day. It was a great way to say farewell to this beautiful bird.
Diving in
Running on water
Going for the strike
Grabbing a fish
Stopping to preen
The Reddish Egret quickly made its way to the top five of my list for favorite birds. What a fun bird to watch!