Plumed Egret
NamePlumed Egret
Common NameGreat Egret
Scientific NameArdea alba
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)145
Length (cm)90
Weight (g)1000
Plumage DetailsEntirely white plumage. Features a long, yellow bill and dark legs and feet. During the breeding season, it grows long, ornamental plumes (aigrettes) on its back that extend beyond the tail, and the lores (skin between the eye and bill) may turn greenish.
Vocalization / CallGenerally a silent bird, but it can produce a harsh, croaking 'crawk' or 'garrr' sound, particularly when in nesting colonies or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNearly cosmopolitan, found across most tropical and temperate regions worldwide, including the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Identifying Featuresall-white plumage, long S-curved neck, long yellow dagger-like bill, dark legs and feet, breeding plumes on back
Description
This large, elegant white wading bird is characterized by its long, S-curved neck and a distinctive dagger-like yellow bill. It typically hunts by standing motionless in shallow water, patiently waiting to strike at unsuspecting prey. During breeding season, it develops delicate, lacy plumes on its back.
