Reddish Egret

The Reddish Egret  is a small heron. It is a resident breeder in Central America, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, the Gulf Coast of the United States, and Mexico. There is post-breeding dispersal to well north of the nesting range. In the past, this bird was a victim of the plume trade.According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department  there are only 1,500 to 2,000 nesting pairs of Reddish Egrets in the United States - and most of these are in Texas. They are classified as "threatened" in Texas and receive special protection.The Reddish Egret is considered one of the most active herons, and is often seen on the move. It stalks its prey visually in shallow water far more actively than other herons and egrets, frequently running energetically and using the shadow of its wings to reduce glare on the water once it is in position to spear a fish; the result is a fascinating dance. Due to its bold, rapacious yet graceful feeding behavior, author Pete Dunne nicknamed the Reddish Egret "the Tyrannosaurus Rex of the Flats".It eats fish, frogs, crustaceans, and insects. The bird's usual cry is a low, guttural croak.

Source:
Picture | Link:
Wikipedia |Link: