When it is really hot outside, birds try to avoid direct sunlight, like this Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) that I spotted last week during a visit to Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The heron was relaxing in the vegetation at the edge of a small pond and appearing to be standing on a single leg, with the other leg probably tucked under.
In the winter months, I often see herons using this position as a way of conserving body heat, which obviously was not needed on this hot, humid day, so I am wondering if the “missing” leg was simply hidden by the vegetation.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
I love to see herons. Great photo, Mike.
Thanks, Suzette.
The claw of his raised foot is visible where his white tummy feathers are floofed out.
Thanks for tip and the sharp eyes. I guess I did not look closely enough. 🙂
An amazing photo of an amazing bird, Mike. 🙂
Beautiful shot, Mike.
what a tttaaallll guy!
I am always amazed at the length of the necks of Great Blue Herons. Normally the herons tend to be hunched over with a curve in their necks, but when their necks reach giraffe-like proportions when fully extended.