NO HAT DECORATION

These days the Snowy Egrets are so plentiful, it’s hard to imagine that there was a time when they were nearly extinct.  A century ago the Snowy Egret was hunted for its beautiful plumes - the lighter, flowy feathers they grow during the breeding season.  The plumes were used in women’s fashion, especially to decorate fancy hats.  In 1886, the value of the plumes was $32 an ounce, which was twice the price of gold at the time.  In 1918, the Migratory Bird Act was passed so the Snowy Egret had legal protection and has since made a strong comeback. 

Not a ray of sunshine today, totally overcast and sprinkles throughout the day.  Not the best lighting, but I’m lucky to have an egret stop by to provide a blip opportunity.