GREAT WHITE HERON
192. Ardea occidentalis. 50 in.
This is the largest heron that we get in North America, surpassing even the [Great Blue]. Its plumage is entirely white; no “aigrettes” on the back, but two white plumes on the back of the head and the feathers of the breast much lengthened, the same as in adult [Blue Herons]; bill, eyes and legs yellow. A gray phase of this heron, or a hybrid between it and the [Great Blue Heron], is occasionally found in Southern Florida; it is similar to the Blue Heron, but paler and with the head and neck white.
Nest.—A large platform of sticks placed in the tops of mangroves. Their three or four eggs are not distinguishable from those of the next species; June.
Range.—Said to be not uncommon on some of the Florida Keys.
