Great Egret
Image: Helen Wortham (cc-by-nc)
NameGreat Egret
Common NameGreat Egret
Scientific NameArdea alba
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)145
Length (cm)90
Weight (g)1000
Plumage DetailsAdult Great Egrets have entirely white plumage. They possess a long, yellow bill and long, dark (blackish) legs and feet. During breeding season, they develop delicate, lacy plumes (aigrettes) on their backs.
Vocalization / CallGreat Egrets are generally silent outside of breeding colonies. Their calls are typically a low, harsh, guttural croak or 'kraaaak' sound, often given when disturbed or during territorial displays.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsmarshes, swamps, lakes, ponds, rivers, estuaries, tidal flats, coastal areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Great Egret has a nearly cosmopolitan distribution, found in temperate and tropical regions across much of the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Identifying Featureslarge size, pure white plumage, long S-curved neck, yellow bill, black legs and feet, lacy breeding plumes
Description
The Great Egret is a large, elegant wading bird known for its striking all-white plumage and graceful movements. It typically hunts by standing still or slowly wading in shallow water, patiently waiting to strike at prey with its long, sharp bill.
