Great egret (Ardea alba) hunting, Big Cypress National Preserve, 2015.

These large wading birds were nearly hunted to extinction for their breeding plumage in the late 19th century. The plight of this elegant wader inspired early conservation efforts and laws to protect birds. The egret in this photo is hunting. They usually feed in shallow water, mainly eating fish, frogs, small mammals and occasionally small reptiles and insects. The great egret stands still, allowing the prey to come within striking distance of its very sharp bill. Then the egret uses its bill as a spear. This is why you'll usually witness egrets slowly stalking prey in shallow water or simply waiting motionless for prey to wander close enough for the bird to strike.