I visited a few Louisiana rookeries in late April. I thought I'd share some of the behavior I observed.
Image #1
These are Snowy Egrets after a tussle for territory. No real harm done except the pond was being patrolled by a 12 foot alligator - the bird did not stay in the water long.
Image #2
This is a Roseate Spoonbill bringing a stick back the nest. I didn't see this behavior often from the Roseates as they could be seen stealing the sticks from smaller birds' nests such as Little Blue Herons and Cattle Egrets.
Image #3
The birds would sometimes spot sticks in the water and make a go for it. This Great Egret tried for this large stick but dropped it before making it to the nest.
Image #4
Great Egret feeding young. This image shows two of the chicks which appear well fed. Not pictured is a hidden third chick in the nest which appears malnourished. My understanding is that it is unusual for more than two chicks to survive.
Image #5
Here is a Cormorant bringing in a branch. I read that their nest is constructed first of bare twigs then leafy branches so this bird's nest must be near completion.
Life In The Louisiana Rookeries
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