Tri-Colored Heron - part 1
 

The three species of Egret I have recently posted are all magnificent birds - but my favourite bird at Gatorland Rookery was the Tri-Colored Heron. It is a superb looking bird, with long bill, neck, and legs. On our first trip to Florida, I saw just one solitary bird, skulking in the reeds at the water's edge.  However, when nesting, it is very sociable, often in very large colonies with various other herons and egrets. So on this trip, I was delighted to see a large number of birds, sitting on nests and providing a variety of other photographic opportunities.
 

This first set of photos is of general portraits and close up images.
 

Tri-Colored HeronGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Tri-Colored HeronGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Tri-Colored HeronGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Tri-Colored HeronGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Some of the birds were really quite close, allowing some striking head shots. I particularly like the contrast of the purple / blue feathers and the white head crests.
 

Tri-Colored Heron portraitGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Tri-Colored Heron portraitGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Tri-Colored Heron portraitGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Tri-Colored Heron portraitGatorland Rookery, Orlando, Florida, USA
 

Tri Colored HeronGatorland Rookery, Orlando, USA
 

More photos of these beautiful birds soon.