The almost all white plumage of this bird below poses an ID challenge for many newcomers to the wetlands, who often mistakenly assume he is one of the white egrets – a Snowy Egret or Great Egret.
But the bluish-black color of his beak, and his unmistakable green legs are great clues to his true identity.
His behavior gives him away, too, as he forages slowly and deliberately through the water, lifting his legs high and waving his neck and head from side to side.
Did you correctly identify him as a Little Blue Heron?! – A juvenile, who is just starting to show some subtle patches of blue plumage amidst those white feathers. 
And this is what that ‘white’ Little Blue Heron will look like as an adult – completely slate-blue, with a purplish tint on the neck and head. If you look very closely, you can see the resemblance!
To learn more about the handsome Little Blue Heron’s unusual color transformation, listen to this recent episode on Bird Note, called Little Blue Heron, Light and Dark, and . . . Check out the All About Birds site to learn even more!
Interesting post and beautiful photographs!
Thank you for stopping by, and for your kind comments, Belinda!
Terrific photos. I don’t think I’ve ever noticed how greeen those legs and toes are. They look like they could perform photosynthesis there….
Lol! Spoken like a true scientist. They really are quite a distinguishing feature, aren’t they, Sue? I really appreciate your visit.
Nice pictures! We have one at our pond quite frequently. They are beautiful birds!
How lucky that you have one so close to home, Pam. We often have other various herons and egrets outside our window, but have to pop over to our nearby wetlands to enjoy the Little Blues.
Of course the fish don’t like it. They hide under the dock. 🙂
A beautiful post for a beautiful bird and done in such an informative and flowing manner. Thanks for that reminder on the color change of the Lil Blue.
Glad you enjoyed it, Berny. I’ll quiz you next time we see one!
How fascinating! Great captures. 🙂
The Little Blue Heron’s color transformation is one that often stumps visitors to the wetlands. They are beauties!
Great post! These two birds are easy to mix up. I have seen completely white juveniles and ones that already have a fe blue spots 🙂
We get them a lot here too, Tiny. One of our wetlands is a favorite nesting area for the Little Blues. ☺️
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