Great blue heron

Description:

Large wading bird foraging in a marsh. In the second pic he is trying to pluck a leaf out of the corner of his eye with its claws or more specifically its pectinate toe. Pectinate toes are a special adaption that many long necked birds like herons have. A pectinate toe is usually the longest forward facing toe on a bird's foot, and can be found on one or both feet. This toe has a special toenail with serration or ridges on the inner edge that closely resemble a comb. The comb is thought to help with preening, cleaning and straightening feathers, removing feather sheaths, and helping to keep the bird aerodynamic.

Habitat:

Spotted at the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge.