Reddish Egret in Breeding Plumage
The Reddish Egret undergoes a dramatic transformation during breeding season. It’s feathers turn from dark brown to a light cinnamon, its lores (the skin around it’s eyes and base of the bill) become a brilliant lilac, and bill becomes two-toned showing vibrant pink at its base and a lustrous black at the tip. It’s for this reason that I led the Photo Club of the Tampa Audubon Society out to Fort De Soto Park on the morning of Saturday, February 21, 2026 to photograph the Reddish in all its stunning glory.
We had no trouble finding the Reddish as he was in the tidal lagoon as you walk out to the beach. This is a shallow area perfect for wading birds. This Reddish was also very accustomed to the presence of people. There were about 8 or 10 people watching and/or photographing this bird and he walked within feet of those on the shore. I used an 800mm lens, but in retrospect I wished I used the 180-600mm lens. I often had to back up to keep the bird in the frame.
Reddish Egret. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens at f/6.3, 1/2500, ISO 450.
Anytime of the year the Reddish is always fun to photograph as he scurries about to find prey. However, it’s on a whole other level when the Reddish is in breeding plumage. The feathers on his head, neck and tail seem to be longer, giving the bird a fuller, maned appearance. It’s particularly noticeable when he shakes his head, which he usually did after catching a fish.
Reddish Egret. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens at f/6.3, 1/2500, ISO 450.
Reddish Egret. The characteristic pose of the Reddish Egret, using his wings to shade the water. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens at f/6.3, 1/2500, ISO 450.
Reddish Egret. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens at f/6.3, 1/3200, ISO 500.
When preening all birds puff up a little bit and ruffle out their feathers. When the Reddish does it, you get this very interesting look, which reminds me of Cousin It.
Reddish Egret. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens at f/6.3, 1/2500, ISO 400.
Reddish Egret. Nikon Z8 with Nikkor Z 800mm f/6.3 VR S lens at f/6.3, 1/3200, ISO 560.
TAS Photo Club participants. Photo courtesy of Dave Townsend.
