Catch Your Own Meal!

  Several years ago, a young Great Blue Heron sort of adopted us.  The bird, who we named "Moe", would come to the pier to beg for handouts.  Menhaden and small mullet were his favorites but he was not adverse to gobbling up any fish that happened to be caught in the net.  Several times, I actually fretted over the fact that Moe stole a catfish.  He swallowed the fish whole...sharp spines and all!  We actually got to know Moe really well and was able to handfeed the bird.  Then, Moe went missing.  I worried that perhaps one of the alligators had caught him or perhaps the fox that is on constant patrol of the marshes.  For months, I did not see my friend which made me sorrowful.  I missed the interaction with the bird.

  After almost a year, I began to notice a large male heron around the area.  I knew that youngster Moe had been battling for territory and figured that the older, larger male had won rights to the Bayou.  Moe must have moved on the other areas in search of a mate and suitable nesting sites.  Then...Moe!  The large male was Moe!  How do I know?  There is no mistaking the friendship.  The large male has no fear of me and will often look as if he is begging me to throw the net for menhaden.  Sorry, Moe!!  I truly wish I could but until the pier is fully repaired, I dare not venture to the end.  You will have to fend for yourself!