The nest was on the other side of this tree. Letting the others know he has arrived.

In a busy rookery like this there are many other Egrets. He may be waiting for a response from his mate to tell him where he should be going. I have seen them go to the wrong nest, it gets ugly.

Announcing His Arrival, Egret

Announcing His Arrival, Egret

Announcing His Arrival, Egret

Announcing His Arrival, Egret