Snowy Egret
Image: Nick T. (cc-by-sa)
NameSnowy Egret
Common NameSnowy Egret
Scientific NameEgretta thula
FamilyArdeidae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)61
Weight (g)370
Plumage DetailsEntirely white plumage, with a slender black bill, black legs, and striking bright yellow feet. During breeding season, it develops lacy plumes on its head, neck, and back, and the patch of skin (lores) between the eye and bill turns reddish-orange.
Vocalization / CallGenerally quiet, but can produce harsh, croaking calls or a low 'aah-aah' sound, especially when disturbed or during courtship displays.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetlands, marshes, coastal areas, estuaries, lagoons, ponds, mudflats
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the Americas, breeding from the United States and southern Canada south through Central and South America. Winters primarily in the southern parts of its breeding range and further south.
Identifying Featuresall-white plumage, slender black bill, black legs, bright yellow feet, yellow lores (non-breeding) or reddish-orange lores (breeding)
Description
The Snowy Egret is a medium-sized, elegant white heron known for its active foraging style in shallow waters. It often stirs its bright yellow feet to flush out prey before striking with its slender black bill.
