Formally known as the "American Egret" this bird's official name is now the Great Egret. It is one of the most magnificent of our herons, it has fortunately recovered from historic persecution by plumage hunters. Like the Great Blue Heron, it usually feeds alone, stalking fish, frogs, snakes, & crayfish in shallow water. Each summer many individuals, especially young ones, wander far north of the primary breeding grounds. The primary breeding grounds mainly occupy the south central & south eastern US.
Although seeing one of these magnificent creatures in West Virginia is very rare. I found one at a local state park over the summer. I was lucky enough to capture this beautiful bird on film before he continued on his journey.
