Little Blue Heron, Costa Rica

The Little Blue Heron of Costa Rica may not be as flashy as some of its tropical neighbors, but it has a quiet elegance that’s hard to ignore. With its slate-blue feathers and a graceful neck that curves like a question mark, this heron looks like it belongs in a watercolor painting. When it’s young, though, it’s a totally different story—it starts life as a snow-white fluff ball and slowly morphs into its blue-gray adult feathers over time. This color-changing act makes spotting a young Little Blue Heron feel like finding nature’s version of a work in progress!

But this bird isn’t just about good looks—it’s a skilled hunter, too. You’ll often find it standing perfectly still in Costa Rica’s wetlands, marshes, or mangroves, waiting for the perfect moment to strike at a fish, frog, or crab with lightning-fast precision. Its patience and focus are truly impressive—watching it hunt feels like seeing an artist at work. Whether it’s blending into the water’s reflection or stalking its prey with ninja-like stealth, the Little Blue Heron is a fascinating and elegant addition to Costa Rica’s vibrant birdlife.