LOUISIANA HERON 
199. Hydranassa tricolor ruficollis. 26 in. 
In breeding plumage, with short plumes on the back, 
extending three or four inches beyond the tips of the 
wings. Throat, front line of neck, and underparts 
white; head and neck reddish-purple; back and wings 
slaty; crest whitish; bill and legs dark; eyes red. A 
very abundant species throughout the year, on the Gulf 
coast of the United States. Their bearing is one of 
self-esteem and their walk slow and stately; they are 
often called “* Lady of the Waters,” because of the im- 
posing picture that they make. They are very sociable, 
rarely quarrel among themselves, and are usually found 
in company with Little Blue Herons and Egrets. 
Nest.—They nest in communities in mangroves in 
southern Florida and in swamps, in company with many 
other species, in the northern portions of their range. 
Their nesting habits and eggs are the same as those of 
the Snowy Heron. 
Range.—Breeds and is resident in the South Atlantic 
and Gulf States. 
