Reddish Egret
NameReddish Egret
Common NameReddish Egret
Scientific NameEgretta rufescens
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)120
Length (cm)76
Weight (g)430
Plumage DetailsAdult dark morphs, as pictured, have a shaggy reddish-brown head and neck, contrasting with a slate-gray body. The bill is bicolored, pinkish at the base with a black tip, and the legs are bluish-gray.
Vocalization / CallGenerally silent, but may emit low croaks, gurgles, or harsh squawks when disturbed or during breeding displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the coastal regions of the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Identifying FeaturesShaggy reddish head and neck (dark morph), Slate-gray body (dark morph), Bicolored bill (pinkish base, black tip), Bluish-gray legs, Active, 'dancing' foraging behavior
Description
The Reddish Egret is a medium-sized heron known for its active and often comical foraging style, including 'dancing' and wing-spreading to shade the water. It inhabits coastal wetlands, primarily feeding on fish and crustaceans.
