A Great White – but not a shark

This is a Great Egret. This species is not terribly common in my neck of the woods. We appear to be on the line between breeding area and only migration. I’ve seen one before on our property (last year or maybe the year before that), but I’ve never been close enough to get get more than a blurry image.

I’m happy that this time I was able to move close enough to capture a few decent shots. They aren’t National Geographic worthy, but hey I’m happy.

This magnificent bird was hunting in the shallow North end of our pond when I entered the pond meadow. At first I didn’t see it. Then, out of the corner of my eye, I thought I saw a white plastic bag or some other trash that, perhaps the wind blew in. When it moved and raised that stately long neck I knew this was a precious moment that I should not miss. So, at first I shot only from the distance I was, which was pretty far away. But, as it continued to feed I got gutsy and moved another 10 feet closer. When that didn’t sway it, I moved another 10 feet and stayed put while I shot these photos.

It certain took its time arranging the small fish it caught, which appear to be a young catfish. It took the handsome bird quite a while to finally swallow after many flips and readjusting in it’s long bill. But, the snack finally went down its gullet. I took these shots when I was at the farthest distance so they aren’t stellar. For me they are definitely good enough since I never thought I’d get the chance to film a Great Egret eating a fish in our pond!

Enjoy!