Snowy Egret
Egretta thula
These graceful and delicate wading birds are smaller cousins to the Great Egret. In the late 1800s, the snowy egret was nearly hunted to extinction for its striking plumage. While their numbers rebounded following protective legislation in the 20th century, snowy egret numbers are once again in decline with the loss of coastal habitats. Snowy egrets hunt for food in the salty surf near calm sheltered areas—like the breakwaters at the north end of Siesta Beach on Siesta Key—as well as inland fresh water marshes and sloughs. Those ‘golden slippers’ aren’t just for show. Their brilliant yellow toes startle fish, crustaceans, small lizards or insects into motion for easier picking from sandy or muddy sediment.
Jan Baumgartner’s handmade note cards showcase Siesta Key scenic beauty and wildlife. Jan hopes you will enjoy these favorite mementos of The Key’s natural splendor through her camera’s lens.
Siesta Key notecards are available in two locations:
BLVD Beachwear
5239 Ocean Blvd
941-349-2583
Shelly’s Gift and Christmas Boutique
4420 S. Tamiami Trail
941-260-8905
Author: Jan Baumgartner
- Tags: Snowy Egret, The Tweet Life