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.
GREAT BLUE HERON
194. Ardea herodias. 48 in.
Adult Blue Herons are very handsome birds, as may be seen in the illustration. Young birds, and nine out of ten that we see will be young birds, are much duller colored and have no plumes. It takes several years for them to attain their perfect plumage. Their nests are placed in the tops of the tallest trees and are, consequently, difficult to get at. In some heronries, trees have been found containing as many as 40 nests. In flight, herons always carry their head drawn in against the shoulders, the neck being curved below.
Nest.—A platform of sticks in tall trees in wet woods. 3 or 4 pale greenish-blue eggs (2.50 × 1.50); May, June.
Range.—Breeds locally throughout the United States and Canada, either in colonies, or single pairs where they are persecuted as in New England; winters in Southern U.S. 149b. Ward Heron (A. h. wardi) is similar but lighter below and the neck is darker and browner; it abounds in Florida.