Great Egret

The Great Egret (Ardea alba) is one of our most common egrets. It is a relatively large bird with all-white plumage that can reach 3 feet in height and weigh over 2 pounds. Its wingspan is typically 65-85 inches (165-215 cm) which makes it only slightly smaller than the Great Blue Heron.

The image above is two birds. Look closely you'll see one bird is moving slightly to the right of the other.



The Great Egret is distinguished by its yellow bill and black legs and feet, though the bill may become darker and the lower legs lighter in the breeding season.



Males and females of this species are identical in appearance.

The Great Egret has a slow flight and almost always flies with its neck retracted. This is characteristic of herons and bitterns, and distinguishes them from storks, cranes, ibises, and spoonbills. . . which extend their necks in flight.



The Great Egret is generally silent though in breeding colonies it often gives a loud croaking "cuk cuk cuk."