Throwing shade
The black heron (also known as the black egret) imitates shade by spreading its wings out like an umbrella in a unique hunting method called canopy feeding.
Fish and other small aquatic animals are attracted to the shade, as they perceive it as a safe place to hide from the sun and larger predators, or a natural shelter like a submerged log or vegetation. This lures the unsuspecting prey directly into the heron's trap.
And, the canopy of wings reduces the glare and reflection on the surface of the water, much like a person wearing polarized sunglasses. This allows the heron to see its prey more clearly beneath the surface.
Once fish are gathered in the shaded area, the heron strikes swiftly with its sharp beak to catch them.
This intelligent and highly effective strategy demonstrates a remarkable adaptation to its shallow water hunting environment.