252 



KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 



Scotia. It is a common species in Florida, where it is ruthlessly shot for its 

 plumes. It breeds in colonies. The nest is a mass of sticks built in bushes 

 or small trees. The eggs are from three to five in number and pale blue in 

 color. 



'^5 



Subgenus GARZETTA Kaup. 



ARDEA CANDIDISSIMA Gmcl. 

 Snowy Heron. White Egret. 



,-^ 



Adult: Entire plumage pure white, having in the breeding season extended plumes on the 

 back and also feathers on the crest lengthened ; bill black, becoming yellowish at the base ; 

 lores yellow ; legs black ; feet yellow. 



Length, 22 : Wing. 11 ; Tarsus, 3.50: I5ill, 3. 



