In my continuing coverage on the herons and egrets of La Paz, I am going to show off the Tri-colored Heron. These lovely birds are actually quite common, many of which can be seen right along the water front of down town La Paz. Visiting tourists, getingt to enjoy the water front views, small quaint shops, and restaurants, also get to watch the Tri-colored Herons chasing small crabs and fish.

Tri-colored Herons are, for the most part a smaller heron, just an inch or two larger than the Snowy Egret. They are quite active feeders, often seen chasing fish around in circles.

 

This blueish-gray bird has a bright white belly, and white stripe that runs up the front of the neck. They have an extremely long bill, that is two toned, showing a darken tip all year round. The Bill will have a blue gray base during the breeding season. The wings show the bright white underwing coverts and belly when in flight.

 

Once the tide has gone out, then they hunt for the many fine meals that are hidden under the surface of the mud.  They stalk carefully, slinking along in a crouch…then probing deeply with their bill.  This one caught a nice fat salamander.

 

 

No matter how many times I see these birds, whether on an early morning walk down the malecon, or in a hide along the tidal flats, I always enjoy watching them.

Written by Tom Brown
Tom Brown grew up in the high desert area of central Oregon. His love for birds and photography started at a young age. Thru the course of time, travel, and a lot of different occupations, he ended up living in Seattle, and met a girl with a sailboat. When he is not scouring whatever area they are in, looking for the next great bird photo, he can be found trying to earn enough money for the next adventure, and of course, a new lens or camera body! Having been nick-named “The Bird Nerd” by his last remaining friends and family, Tom continues search for that next lifer, and the accompanying photo that goes with it. Find his continuing adventures, photographs, and guiding opportunities at Focus on Feathers.