Herons · Pelicans and herons
Great Egret
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Ardea alba
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Voice
Alarm
Alarm
Call
How to recognize it
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Large all-white heron, only slightly smaller than a Grey Heron
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Long straight yellow bill; black legs and feet
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Long S-shaped neck; slow, deliberate walk with neck extended
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In flight the neck is retracted, flight smooth and steady
About the species
Often seen standing still at the edge of shallow water, the great egret then moves with slow, measured steps, neck stretched forward as it looks for food. In flight it folds its neck back, and when disturbed it gives a low hoarse croak; at colonies the calls can turn into louder croaks and sharp squawks.
It usually hunts alone, but sometimes feeds in groups or takes food from smaller herons. During the breeding season, adults gather in colonies in trees near large lakes, reed beds, and other wetlands, and they keep a nesting area around the colony. Pairs form for one season.
It feeds on fish, frogs, other amphibians, mice, snakes, crayfish, and insects. Outside the breeding season, some populations stay put while others move within their range or travel farther, and it also uses urban and suburban wetlands when suitable water is available.
Where to find
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Along pond edges, canal banks, and quiet river backwaters — look for a Great Egret standing at the reed fringe, then striking fast at fish.
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On the shores of urban reservoirs and reed-lined lakes — easiest to notice when it hunts almost motionless in shallow water.
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By drainage ditches, marshy low spots, and wet vacant ground after rain — a white silhouette may stand alone, scanning for frogs and small prey.
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In waterside parks with tall trees — early in the day it may perch on a branch or islet edge and watch the water for long stretches.
