Little Egret

The little egret (Egretta garzetta) is a small white heron widespread across parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is known for its elegant appearance. It typically measures about 55-65 cm in length, with a wingspan of 88-106 cm. Key identifying features include its slender black bill, black legs, and distinctive yellow feet. In breeding season, it develops ornate nuptial plumes on its back, neck, and head. It is often confused with other small white herons, such as the white morph of the western reef heron (Egretta gularis), but can usually be distinguished by its combination of an all black bill and yellow feet. It is also smaller and more compact compared to larger egrets, such as the intermediate egret (Ardea intermedia) and the much larger great egret (Ardea alba).

The little egret inhabits a variety of wetland habitats, including marshes, riverbanks, lakeshores, and estuaries. It feeds mainly on fish, but its diet also includes amphibians, crustaceans, insects, and small reptiles. This bird hunts by wading through shallow water, often running or shuffling its feet to disturb prey. It is known for its agility and often catches prey by quickly darting its head into the water. It sometimes display feeding techniques that are a bit more acrobatic in nature, which includes hopping, wing flicking, and even foot stirring to catch prey.

Breeding season varies geographically but typically occurs during spring and early summer. Little egrets engage in elaborate courtship displays, which include stretching their necks, bowing, and showing off their nuptial plumes. These displays are often accompanied by loud calling. Once paired, the male and female work together to build their nest. The male gathers materials, while the female arranges them. The little egret is a colonial nester, often building nests in trees or bushes near water. Nests are constructed from twigs and lined with softer plant material. A breeding pair often returns to the same breeding area year after year. However, they may choose different nesting sites within this area each breeding season.

The female usually lays 3-5 blue-green eggs, and both parents share incubation duties over a period of about 21-25 days. Initially, the older chicks are more likely to receive food due to their size advantage. As the chicks grow, they become more vocal and competitive for food. Fledging occurs at about 40-45 days, but the young may stay with the parents for a few more weeks, learning to forage and fly.

The little egret’s ‘snowy’ appearance made it a target for plume hunters in the past, leading to significant population declines until legal protections were introduced. The species is now widespread and the population is increasing. It is currently experiencing a notable range expansion, and has been colonizing new areas in northern Europe and beyond. It is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.