Snowy Egret
NameSnowy Egret
Common NameSnowy Egret
Scientific NameEgretta thula
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)370
Plumage DetailsEntirely white plumage, often with lacy plumes on the head, neck, and back during breeding season. The lores (skin between the eye and bill) are yellow, becoming brighter during breeding. It has a slender black bill, black legs, and striking bright yellow feet.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but can emit harsh, croaking, or guttural calls, especially when disturbed or in breeding colonies. Calls are typically low-pitched and raspy.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, estuaries, tidal flats, ponds, lakes, rivers, coastal areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the Americas, from the United States and southern Canada south through Central America and the Caribbean to South America.
Identifying FeaturesAll-white plumage, Slender black bill, Yellow lores (skin between eye and bill), Black legs, Bright yellow feet
Description
The Snowy Egret is a medium-sized, all-white heron with a slender black bill, yellow lores, and distinctive black legs with bright yellow feet. It actively forages in shallow waters, often stirring its feet to flush out prey.
