Subject: Juvenile Little Blue Heron, Egretta caerulea

Location: Assateague National Seashore, Chincoteague, Virginia

Stock Number: 08-42909

Comments: A number of species of heron feature plumage color polymorphism, with both light and dark individuals. In the case of Little Blue Herons, the juveniles are white and the adults blue.

Ornithologists are curious about the precise evolutionary advantage of white-plumage in juveniles; it would seem the white coloration could make them more susceptible to predation. The answer may have to do with heat absorption and reflection.

As for identification, unlike the Snowy Egret, which may look similar, Little Blue Herons have green legs and feet.

Related image: Adult Little Blue Heron from the same time and place: