It seems, finally, that both young Great Blue Herons have moved off. At least most of the time. I did have doubts about the younger chick since there was little interest in flying. At one point I had thought perhaps he was injured during one of the Egret attacks.

Watching the older sibling flying around the swamp probably prompted flight.

They do return here out of habit. But I have seen them enjoying the shade in trees rather than out in the hot sun. By now the adults rarely bring food.

As I watch and find them I will continue to photograph their progress. However it won’t be long until they blend in with all the other young herons that live here.

It’s a difficult life but they made the first, and most important, step.