← All species
Great Egret
Ardea alba
Least Concern2 photos· First seen Feb 2026
- Habitat
- Freshwater and saltwater wetlands, including marshes, ponds, lakes, and tidal flats.
- Diet
- Primarily fish, but also amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, and large insects, caught by stalking slowly or standing motionless.
- Classification
- Pelecaniformes · Ardeidae
Fun Facts
- It is the symbol of the National Audubon Society, founded to protect birds from the plume trade.
- During the breeding season, a patch of skin on its face turns neon green.
- They fly with their long necks tucked into an S-curve, which distinguishes them from cranes and storks in flight.
- In the late 19th century, their long feathers were so popular in the fashion industry that they were worth more than twice their weight in gold.
Sighting Locations
1 photo at 1 location