We frequently stop at Herring Pond to see if there are any new birds that have migrated to the area. I had my binoculars and was scanning the waters when Phil said, “Oh look!” (Click on blog link for other photo.)
There was a Great Blue Heron about 20 feet away standing by the side of the parking lot. What a treat!
I was afraid to open the window as I might scare him away, so I clicked away through the car window… even with it drizzling outside.
Gorgeous bird, don’t you think?
Wow! Gorgeous!
If my bit of research is correct, those long feathers are breeding plumes ruffled in a territorial display.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Great_Blue_Heron/id