An abnormal trait of REDISH EGRETS is their persistency in standing by their nests for hours, bristling their plumes and warding off imaginary attacks, then calmly watching a Grackle destroy the eggs without the slightest attempt to repel the thief!
This bird has been the subject of much disputation: some regard the white phase as a distinct species but evidence leans toward the fact of dichromatism. When all the plumes are erected in courtship-display they resemble a porcupine "quite terrifying to their enemies but probably pleasing to the mate."
NEST — a bulky structure of dry sticks, well interlaced and substantially built, located in low bushes or on ground.
EGGS — 3 or 4; pale blue green.
Gulf Coast of United States. Rare in Florida.