Birds around DPS Tapi

The Great Egret looks very attractive in this photo because of the odd combination of colours.  Observe the green lores (vivid turquoise-green) above the intense black bill. Also note the legs are pale red. This happens for a short period when in full breeding condition. Normally the bill is deep black, with contrasting blue-grey or lime-green lore, and the legs are also black (including the feet) but with yellow on the tibia, down to  and including the ‘knees’. By late summer, orange or bright primrose-yellow starts to appear on the bill base, gradually increasing in size so that by autumn the bill is completely orangey-yellow, remaining this colour throughout the winter. It is very interesting observing these relatively common birds in Surat.