The real-life Ugly Duckling story

We’ve all heard the story of the Ugly Duckling. That poor little baby “duck” that grew into a beautiful swan. And there are plenty of examples of this in real life. From a caterpillar becoming a butterfly to a tadpole transforming into a frog, nature has a way of bringing about amazing changes.

One transformation I’d like to share is the story of a true ugly duckling. Not a different kind of bird, but a baby bird so awkward-looking that it’s a classic case of “a face only a mother could love.” As a youngster, this little bird looks more like a prehistoric raptor than the elegant creature it will become.

Yet in time, it transforms into one of the most beautiful birds in nature. Adults develop such stunning plumage that egrets were once hunted nearly to extinction during the height of the feather trade.

So little guy, be glad you were born now and not 100 years ago.

Let me introduce you to the real Ugly Duckling: a baby egret.

 

Who will eventually become this magnificent adult.