Verification of Unusual
Sight Record
For Utah
Rec. # 2014-020
| Common name: |
Little Blue Heron |
| Scientific name: | Egretta caerulea |
| Date: | 07/23/2014 |
| Time: | 1:40 PM |
| Length of time observed: | 35 Minutes |
| Number: | 1 |
| Age: | |
| Sex: | |
| Location: | Farmington Bay, Glover Pond and Nature Center |
| County: | Davis |
| Latilong: | |
| Elevation: | |
| Distance to bird: | 50 Meters |
| Optical equipment: | Binoculars Swaroski 8.5-42,Nikon Spotting Scope 30X E82A |
| Weather: | Clear |
| Light Conditions: | Bright Sunshine |
| Description: Size of bird: | About 2 feet tall |
| (Description:) Basic Shape: | |
| (Description:) Overall Pattern: | Dark Blue-Gray |
| (Description:) Bill Type: | Blusih Gray much like a Snowy Egret except for color |
|
(Description:)
Field Marks and Identifying Characteristics: |
Bird had a slate blue body with a purple blue head, dark all over. Yellow eyes,
the bill was dark gray with a black tip. The size and shape reminded me of a
Snowy Egret. (see photos) |
| Song or call & method of delivery: | |
| Behavior: | |
| Habitat: | |
| Similar
species and
how were they eliminated: |
I eliminated Great Blue Heron based on size and overall color there were examples of Great Blues nearby. I also considered a Black-crowned Night Heron, but once again shape and color were off. |
| Previous
experience with this & similar species: |
I saw this bird earlier this year in San Diego and so was familiar with it. |
| References consulted: | |
| Description from: | From photo(s) taken at the time of the sighting |
| Observer: | Norman Jenson |
| Observer's address: | 1564 Blueberry Hl, Sandy, Utah |
| Observer's e-mail address: | ** |
| Other observers who independently identified this bird: | Gail Jenson, Shyloh Robinson |
| Date prepared: | 07/23/14 |
| Additional material: | Photos |
| Additional_Comments: |