Snowy Egret

In the shallows,

Statue still,

Poised to strike

Some unwary victim

Soon to be victual.

Pristine white feathers

Against the sky,

Deceive the eye

Of passing creatures

Down below.

Patient hunter,

Winged beauty,

Graceful flyer,

Eye catcher,

Peaceful elegance.

The snowy egret was once threatened for its beautiful plumage which brought double the price of gold in the 1880's.  The feathers were highly prized to grace the hats of the ladies.  They have recovered and are common today.  Read about them here.  The one in the photo above was visiting one of ponds on our land.  Without the development of water sources such as this one, the opportunities to feed would be greatly diminished for many wading species such as this snowy egret.  Ranching has and continues to serve an important role in conserving open spaces for wildlife throughout our country.