Medium Egret
NameMedium Egret
Common NameIntermediate Egret
Scientific NameArdea intermedia
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)102.5
Length (cm)64
Weight (g)400
Plumage DetailsEntirely white plumage. Non-breeding birds have a yellow bill and dark legs. During breeding, it develops lacy plumes on its back and breast, and the bill may turn reddish or orange.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but may emit a low croak or gurgle, especially around the nest or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia, including parts of Southeast Asia, India, and northern Australia.
Identifying Featuresmedium size, all white plumage, yellow bill (non-breeding), dark legs, relatively short and thick neck, gape line does not extend past the eye
Description
A medium-sized, all-white egret characterized by its relatively short, thick neck and yellow bill. It typically forages in shallow freshwater wetlands, rice paddies, and flooded grasslands, preying on small aquatic animals.
