Birds

Reddish Egrets, the court jester of wading birds.

June 28, 2017 by Tom Brown 4 Comments

As the dog days of summer descend upon us here in Mexico, many of our avian residents have bailed out and headed back north to avoid the summertime heat. The number of bird species to be found, falls dramatically, but we can always rely on our impressive populations of Herons, egrets and even a few rails to keep our birding juices flowing. Our local Reddish Egrets are a popular species for many of my out of town guests. Their bright colors, interesting behavior, and easy access, allow for nice consistent viewing.

 

 

Here in this part of Mexico we have the “Dark Morph”, a bird that has the true reddish head and neck, which the “White Morph” of its eastern family members do not enjoy. I have never encountered the white morph birds here in Mexico, so we have very little problem with identification, that you might find with the all white birds.

 

This lovely bird is well know for its animated dancing, and hopping and wide spread wings while foraging in the shallows. Many times I have just sat and watched their crazy antics, and find myself almost giggling.

 

 

 

 

 

A few of our small, rocky islands serve as nest sites for Reddish Egrets, as well as several other wading birds. The nests are built from sticks and twigs, right in amongst the various cacti and other thorny, but protective plants.

 

 

 

 

 

Written by Tom Brown
Tom Brown grew up in the high desert area of central Oregon. His love for birds and photography started at a young age. Thru the course of time, travel, and a lot of different occupations, he ended up living in Seattle, and met a girl with a sailboat. When he is not scouring whatever area they are in, looking for the next great bird photo, he can be found trying to earn enough money for the next adventure, and of course, a new lens or camera body! Having been nick-named “The Bird Nerd” by his last remaining friends and family, Tom continues search for that next lifer, and the accompanying photo that goes with it. Find his continuing adventures, photographs, and guiding opportunities at Focus on Feathers.