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. 
/ 2 Sona 
Ardea egretta. 
SUBGENUS GARZETTA Kaup. 
ARDEA CANDIDISSIMA Gie/. 
Snowy Heron. White Egret. 
Ardea candidissima. 
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; Bill, 3. 
