The most widespread of Herons was the Great White Egret. However, people’s demand for fashionable plumed hats caused mass slaughter of this Bird in the 19th Century. Even though laws were enacted to save Great White Egret, He has yet to fully recover to his original numbers.
Living in the marshlands, Great White Egret patiently waits for a Fish. He stalks the shallow waters near the shore. Extending his neck ready to stab his prey, Great White Egret inches up on his unsuspecting victim. With his long stabbing beak, Great White Egret spears another tasty morsel.
The mass slaughter of Great White Egret prompted people to enact laws to save Him. In the United States, Great White Egret was chosen as the “poster bird” for the Audubon Society, which was formed to save this Bird. Meanwhile, the British Royal Society of the Protection of Birds (RSPB) was founded in response to what was happening to Great White Egret in Europe. By being Himself, Great White Egret gave people the impetus to change what they were doing.
When Great White Egret inches His way into your life, remember that He is signaling that it is time for a change. Study his effect on those around Him to see what you need to do to change.
Great White Egret’s Teachings Include:
“This bird is the peacemaker and fisherman. He brings peace, stability, harmony, and good-luck. He is graceful, tactful, and direct. The feathers from these birds are used in healing ceremonies to take away negative energy and anger, and to bring peace and harmony to a situation.” Copyright: “Spirits of the Earth”, Bobby Lake-Thom.
Conservation Note: Great White Egret is protected by international treaties.
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Photo of Great White Egret courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Va. Carper
August 25, 2005