Louisiana Wildlife

UPDATE # 2:  After finding this photo I'm now more convinced that this is a Tricolored Heron, formely known as the Louisiana Heron

UPDATE:  I need your HELP!  I can't figure out what bird this is.  The closest I can come to is a Tricolored Heron.  But that's not it if you ask me.   Unless the male and female look different and I have only seen the opposite sex.  Let me know what you find out.  Use the comment button below.  Thanks.

I'm not sure what species this is or even its common name.  It is a very interesting bird.  My friend Mark got eaten alive by fire ants while I captured this image.  If you've never been bitten by fire ants they are extremely painful.  After the pain subsides the itching and swelling begin.  For some folks a single fire ant bite can still be lingering a week later.  Mark bit his tongue as he stepped into an ENTIRE MOUND of fire ants.  They were all over his feet.  He must have gotten 5 or 6 bites.  BUT he didn't let a peep out of his mouth.  He didn't want me to miss the shot because he was screaming bloody murder from the agony of the multiple bites.  That's what I call a brave, fearless friend!