By CONNIE MERTZ

It is not unusual to spot a great blue heron once in a while stalking the water's edge of our wetlands during summer, particularly if the water level is low. It's easy pickings for frogs in the shallows. Every now and then we both hear and see the little green heron, and he's quite a contrast from the great blue. He is much smaller and his call is a shrill "kew," making his presence quite apparent if we invade his turf. The great blue heron just takes flight silently.

Though it is always a treat to see shorebirds, some are more rare than others. Take for instance the other day while walking along a rural road. There's a little creek adjacent to a cow pasture and the water was high from pelting rains the day before. I was spellbound when I saw a great egret along the creek bank. He was beautiful, and far enough away that he didn't take flight. I continued my walk, and returning the same way, I saw not one, but two egrets. What an awesome summer treat!

The common egret, as it is sometimes called, has pure white plumage, a yellow bill and black legs and feet. It's the largest white heron to be seen in Pennsylvania, standing two feet tall. They were once prized for their long, white plumes that were used to decorate women's hats. Conservation laws came in time to save this species from extinction.

That particular day brought me more nature blessings. Three hummingbirds darted from our flower garden, oblivious to my presence. They were cute to watch as they zipped and chirped from one location to another. They were too busy being territorial to notice me in their midst. A while later, I saw a doe and twin fawns adjacent to our backyard. It's amazing how seeing wildlife adds zest to our days.