At the end of the afternoon when the sun is low it would be easy to miss this bird.
Except for the vocalization.

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
December 28, 2022
The Great Blue Heron pair took a few moments to bond after the male brought a stick for the nest.
OK, enough of that.
Ready for another stick!
Off he went.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Charleston, SC
December 28, 2022
Google shares a lot about the word Canoodle, I’ll leave it at “This somewhat silly-sounding word applies to somewhat innocent physical affection.”
Now what turned into some beak clacking.
Size isn’t everything, but sometimes it helps.
Finally the Tricolored Heron made a full body move…
…pushing the Snowy Egret off his perch.
The Tricolored Heron got tangled up in the palm fronds for a few seconds, but not apparent damage.
Territorial Dispute: Snowy Egret vs Tricolored Heron, Part 1
St. Augustine Alligator Farm, FL
April 13, 2022
A number of Cattle Egrets were nesting around the rookery, including this one that was working on some finishing touches.
Another seemed all settled in on the next palm tree.
Last, one that was taking a break from his hard work, giving me a nice view of his breeding colors.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm, FL
April 13, 2022