As the name suggests, a large, white heron. Great white egrets can look similar to little egrets, but they are much larger -the same size as the familiar grey heron. Other identification features to look out for include black feet (not yellow), yellow beak (in juvenile and non-breeding plumage), and a different fishing technique like that of the grey heron.
Key ID Features:
Very large, at least as tall as Grey Heron.
White plumage with summer black plumes.
Large, straight, yellow dagger-like bill, sometimes dark near the tip.
Yellow or blackish legs with black feet, extended in flight.
Overview
Scientific name: Egretta alba
Family: Bitterns and herons (Ardeidae)
Where to see them:
Expanding populations in Europe mean that this species is now seen more frequently in the UK - it can turn up in almost part of the country, with most in south-east England and East Anglia. Great white egrets favour all kinds of wetland habitats - even farmland ditches can attract them.
Seen in UK:
Great white egrets have occurred in the UK in all months of the year, but they are most likely to be seen during spring and winter.
What they eat
Fish, insects and frogs, caught by spearing with its long, sharp beak.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Location: Langford Lakes NR, Wiltshire
Photographer: Tim Tapley
