These comments have not been peer-reviewed, and do not represent the opinions of the U.S. Government. They are presented here as original work of the contributors.

simsclan@worldnet.att.net (Jack R. Sims Jr.) sent this comment:

Little Blue Heron (IMMATURE) Egretta caerulea

Observed at Houston, Texas. January 26, 1998. The upper beak being thick and dropping towards the tip gives the beak the appearance of being curved downwards. This illusion of curvature rather than larger size immediately attracts the eye as something unusual and causes the bird to stand out as something different. Helpful when the bird is resting among 20 inert Snowy Egrets.