The Tricolored heron breeds in both fresh water marsh areas and mangrove swamps. 3-5 blue eggs are laid in springtime, usually in colony with other herons. The buff-tinted breeding plumes introduce a fourth color and are displayed in early spring.
Males are feisty during the mating season.
There is great ceremony in relinquishing the guardianship of the nest and bringing back of the food. Incubation is 21 days, and the babies are never left unattended until they fledge. A tricolored heron will stand motionless and pounce on its prey. They move their neck with the grasses blowing in the breeze as camouflage. The sharp beak is used as it lunges for food.